global positioning system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "global positioning system" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information anywhere on Earth. Example: "The global positioning system has revolutionized navigation for both personal and commercial use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The global positioning system won't read.

The Guardian - Books

PRODUCT CATEGORIES -Automotive entertainment (TV, DVD, global positioning system, etc).

The New York Times

Think of it as our new global positioning system.

The New York Times

The global positioning system (GPS) depends on relativistic principles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

SPORT is no stranger to the global positioning system (GPS).

The Economist

cell site location or global positioning system information.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Global positioning system (GPS) recorded coordinates at each sampling point.

AMB Express

The global positioning system (GPS) companies are now turning inward.

Forbes

All three airlines use refinements based on the constellation of G.P.S., or global positioning system, satellites.

The New York Times

But the Global Positioning System works, and so does inertial navigation.

The New York Times

So, too, are global-positioning-system navigation systems.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "global positioning system", consider your audience. For technical contexts, use the full phrase. In casual contexts, "GPS" is generally acceptable.

Common error

Avoid using "global positioning system" when referring to any navigation system. The term specifically refers to systems using satellite technology for location determination.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "global positioning system" primarily functions as a noun, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig demonstrates, it commonly refers to a technology or system.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

24%

News & Media

44%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

3%

Academia

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "global positioning system" is a noun phrase referring to a technology that uses satellites to determine location. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news, science, and formal contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of your audience; while "global positioning system" is suitable for formal or technical writing, "GPS" is generally acceptable in more casual settings. Alternatives include "satellite navigation" and "GPS navigation", providing nuanced ways to describe the technology. Remember that while "GPS" and "global positioning system" are often interchangeable, the full phrase offers greater precision, especially when introducing the concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gps navigation

This alternative shortens the phrase and emphasizes navigation as the primary function.

satellite navigation

This alternative highlights the use of satellites for positioning.

gps technology

This alternative focuses on the technological aspect of the system.

global navigation satellite system

This alternative broadens the scope to include other global satellite navigation systems.

location tracking system

This alternative emphasizes the function of tracking locations.

gps positioning

This alternative focuses on the positioning aspect provided by GPS.

satellite positioning

This alternative highlights the use of satellites for positioning.

electronic navigation system

This alternative broadens the phrase to include other electronic methods of navigation.

digital navigation system

This alternative focuses on the digital aspect of the navigation technology.

coordinate positioning system

This alternative highlights the functionality of defining coordinates to determine position.

FAQs

How is "global positioning system" commonly abbreviated?

The most common abbreviation for "global positioning system" is "GPS". It's widely recognized and used in both technical and informal contexts.

What other systems are similar to "global positioning system"?

Similar systems include "global navigation satellite system" (GNSS), which encompasses various satellite navigation systems like GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou.

Is it acceptable to use "GPS" and "global positioning system" interchangeably?

Yes, "GPS" and "global positioning system" are often used interchangeably in many contexts. However, it's more precise to use "global positioning system" when referring to the technology in general, and "GPS" when specifically discussing the United States' system.

When should I use the full phrase "global positioning system" instead of the abbreviation "GPS"?

Use the full phrase "global positioning system" in formal writing or when introducing the concept to an audience unfamiliar with the abbreviation "GPS". After the initial introduction, using "GPS" is usually acceptable.