headset

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'headset' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a type of headphone that covers the ears, allowing for direct sound transmission. For example, “He plugged the headset into his computer to block out distracting noise.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Carson has a headset mic and paces the state, trying for the Ted Cruz effect.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Camera – go," a woman whispers repeatedly into her headset, while two dramatists hiss bilingual instructions to the Anglo-German cast.

The Guardian

By wiring a pocket PC to the headset, a user could have the experience of using a desktop computer without having to haul around a heavy screen and battery pack.

The Economist

In two-thirds of the trials, a microwave signal at the operating strength and frequency of a mobile phone was broadcast from the headset into the subject's brain.

The Economist

Talking with a headset or a speaker-phone will be permitted.

The Economist

That's a powerful incentive for worried parents to get their children inside a VR headset.

The Economist

He travels to Portland, Oregon, America's cycling capital, to source a headset (the mechanism joining the front forks to the frame); to Italy for forks, handlebars and drive train from three renowned manufacturers Columbus, Cinelli and Campagnolo; and to Germany for Continental tyres.

The Economist

The Foc.us V2, made by Transcranial, a London company, is advertised as a $199 pocket-sized controller that pairs with a $99 headset intended to help with concentration and reaction speed while videogaming.

The Economist

With the provided headset, users can join live 30-minute and hour-long lessons with no more than a few other users.

The Economist

First, although human brains are similar to one another in general, they are different in detail, so a mass-produced headset with the electrodes in standard locations may not work for everyone.

The Economist

A special headset is needed, with an eye tracker pointing towards the wearer's eyes, and an extra video camera facing forward to record what he is seeing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing headsets, specify their function (e.g., gaming, communication) or type (e.g., wireless, VR) to provide clarity and context for the reader.

Common error

Not all headsets include a microphone. If the presence of a microphone is important, explicitly state "headset with microphone" to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The term "headset" functions primarily as a noun, referring to an audio output device worn on the head, often with a microphone. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing both general audio equipment and specialized devices like VR headsets.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "headset" is a common and grammatically correct noun referring to an audio device worn on the head, often including a microphone. Ludwig AI confirms its general usability in the English language. Analysis of numerous examples shows that "headset" is most frequently used in news and media, but also appears in encyclopedias and scientific contexts. When writing about headsets, clarity is key; specify the type or function of the headset to avoid ambiguity. Related terms include "headphones with microphone" and "VR headset". Overall, "headset" is a versatile term with broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

audio headset

This alternative explicitly states the primary function of the headset, which is audio-related.

headphones with microphone

This alternative is more specific, clarifying the presence of a microphone in addition to the audio output function.

earphones with microphone

This alternative emphasizes the smaller size of the audio devices, again specifying the inclusion of a microphone.

Bluetooth headset

This alternative specifies the wireless technology used to connect the headset to other devices.

gaming headphones

This alternative specifies the common application of the headset, particularly in gaming scenarios.

ear-cup headphones

This alternative specifies the type of headphones that is a headset by emphasizing the ear-covering cups.

communication device

This alternative broadens the scope to include any device used for communication, where a headset is one specific type.

hands-free set

This alternative emphasizes the hands-free aspect of using a headset, which is a key benefit in many situations.

VR headset

This alternative emphasizes on the virtual reality headset

head-mounted display

This alternative focuses on the visual display aspect of the headset that is mounted on the head.

FAQs

How can I use "headset" in a sentence?

You can use "headset" to describe a device with earphones, often including a microphone, that you wear on your head. For example, "She uses a "headset" for online meetings" or "The gamer prefers a wireless "headset" for immersive gameplay".

What's the difference between "headset" and "headphones"?

"Headphones" generally refer to devices for listening only, while a "headset" typically includes a microphone for speaking, in addition to the earphones.

What can I say instead of "headset"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "headphones with microphone", "gaming headphones", or "communication device".

Is it correct to use "headset" to refer to a virtual reality device?

Yes, in the context of virtual reality, "headset" is commonly used to refer to a "VR headset", which provides visual and sometimes audio immersion in a virtual environment.