mechanical device

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mechanical device" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to any machine or apparatus that operates through mechanical means, often in contexts related to engineering, technology, or everyday objects. Example: "The mechanical device was designed to automate the assembly process in the factory."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Antikythera mechanism, ancient Greek mechanical device used to calculate and display information about astronomical phenomena.

Britannica

A missing mechanical device?

The New Yorker

It was a fairly simple mechanical device.

The New York Times

An oar is certainly a mechanical device.

The New York Times - Sports

We did not see one mechanical device working.

The New York Times - Magazine

A rod fixed to the platform supports a mechanical device that serves as the robot's arm.

The New York Times - Tech

Hanging next to the Newark Clock is another mechanical device, "Signal Tower 267".

The New York Times

A mechanical device prevents a train from moving if the doors are open.

The New York Times

Automata for the People One mechanical device plays a piano and four violins at once.

The New York Times

The first sound recordings of music in a mechanical device were actually piano rolls.

MIT Technology Review

And compared to cells, even the most ingenious mechanical device is woefully unsophisticated.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "mechanical devices", be specific about their function. Instead of saying 'a mechanical device was used', specify what the device does, such as 'a mechanical device controlled the airflow'.

Common error

Avoid using "mechanical device" as a placeholder when a more specific term is appropriate. For example, instead of 'the mechanical device malfunctioned', consider 'the pump malfunctioned' or 'the gear system failed'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mechanical device" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It identifies a tangible item that performs a function using mechanical principles. Ludwig confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

26%

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mechanical device" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that refers to an apparatus operating through mechanical principles. According to Ludwig, the term appears often in science, news, and encyclopedia contexts. While the term is widely accepted, it's important to consider if a more specific term could enhance clarity. Alternatives like "machine", "mechanism", or "apparatus" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

machine

A broad term referring to any apparatus using mechanical power and having parts each with a definite function.

mechanism

Focuses on the working parts of a machine and how they interact.

apparatus

A more formal term for a complex machine or equipment used for a specific purpose.

instrument

Suggests a device used for precise measurement or control.

tool

Implies a simpler device, often hand-operated, used to perform a task.

engine

Specifically refers to a machine that converts energy into mechanical force or motion.

implement

A tool or instrument used for a particular purpose, often in a practical or manual way.

contrivance

Suggests a cleverly designed or invented device, sometimes with a slightly negative connotation of being artificial or complicated.

gadget

A small, often ingenious device or tool.

contraption

Often used for a strange, complex, or ramshackle device.

FAQs

How can I use "mechanical device" in a sentence?

You can use "mechanical device" to refer to any machine or apparatus that operates through mechanical principles. For example: "The "Antikythera mechanism" is an ancient "mechanical device" used to calculate astronomical phenomena".

What are some alternatives to "mechanical device"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "machine", "mechanism", or "apparatus".

Is it correct to use "mechanical device" in formal writing?

Yes, "mechanical device" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in technical or scientific contexts. However, consider if a more specific term would be more precise.

What distinguishes a "mechanical device" from an electrical device?

A "mechanical device" operates primarily through physical principles and moving parts, while an "electrical device" relies on electrical currents and circuits for its operation.