pendulum clock

USAGE SUMMARY

"pendulum clock" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the type of clock that uses a weighted pendulum to measure time. For example, "The grandfather clock is an iconic example of a pendulum clock."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The Shortt pendulum clock consists of two separate clocks, one of which synchronizes the other.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Matters improved with the pendulum clock, invented in 1656 in the Netherlands.

The New York Times - Books

"People put a pendulum clock on every mantelpiece; they are wrong; what a lugubrious fashion.

The Guardian - Arts

Bracket clock, English spring-driven pendulum clock, more properly known as a table clock or spring clock.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In Fred Zinnemann's film, the fateful hour is preceded by a gallery of anxious faces intercut with a pendulum clock.

The New Yorker

The French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille formed this constellation in 1754; it represents a pendulum clock.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Minutes and seconds could not be accurately assessed until the seventeenth century, when the pendulum clock was invented.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Pendulum clocks stop, start, change rate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The synchronization of two coupled, similarly sized, escapement-driven pendulum clocks is studied.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

We study two models of connected pendulum clocks synchronizing their oscillations, a phenomenon originally observed by Huygens.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

The design is inspired by the classical experiment on synchronization of pendulum clocks, as described by Christiaan Huygens.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a clock that uses a pendulum for timekeeping, use "pendulum clock" for clarity and precision. It accurately identifies the mechanism.

Common error

While understandable in casual conversation, using terms like "that old clock with the swinging thing" is imprecise. Opt for the correct term, "pendulum clock", especially in formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pendulum clock" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of clock. As Ludwig AI confirms, this term is grammatically sound and commonly used. Examples from Ludwig show it used in various contexts to describe timekeeping mechanisms and historical timepieces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "pendulum clock" is a grammatically correct and very common noun phrase that refers to a specific type of clock using a pendulum for timekeeping. As Ludwig AI validates, its usage is widespread across various contexts, from encyclopedias to news articles and scientific publications. The primary contexts include encyclopedias, news & media and science. Authoritative sources like the Encyclopedia Britannica and The New York Times frequently employ this term. While alternatives like "grandfather clock" or "regulator clock" exist, "pendulum clock" provides a general and accurate description. When writing, use "pendulum clock" for clarity, avoiding informal terms. The phrase exhibits a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clock with pendulum

A more descriptive and less concise way of referring to a pendulum clock.

Huygens' clock

Refers specifically to the pendulum clock invented by Christiaan Huygens.

grandfather clock

Refers to a specific type of pendulum clock, usually tall and freestanding.

longcase clock

Another term for grandfather clock, a specific and tall style of pendulum clock.

regulator clock

Describes a high-precision pendulum clock used for scientific or timekeeping standards.

escapement clock

Highlights the escapement mechanism crucial for the function of a pendulum clock.

weight-driven clock

Highlights the mechanism that powers the clock, similar to a pendulum clock.

mechanical clock

A broader term encompassing pendulum clocks as a type of clock with mechanical components.

timekeeping device

A general term for any instrument used to measure time, including pendulum clocks.

chronometer

A precision timekeeping instrument, though not necessarily a pendulum clock.

FAQs

How does a "pendulum clock" work?

A "pendulum clock" works by using the regular swing of a pendulum to control a clock's gears. The pendulum's consistent motion provides the timing mechanism for the clock.

What are some different types of "pendulum clock"?

Different types of "pendulum clock" include grandfather clocks, regulator clocks, and bracket clocks. These vary in size, style, and accuracy.

What is the history of the "pendulum clock"?

The "pendulum clock" was invented in 1656 by Christiaan Huygens, revolutionizing timekeeping accuracy compared to previous mechanical clocks. Galileo also had earlier design concepts.

Why are atomic clocks better than a "pendulum clock"?

Atomic clocks are more accurate than a "pendulum clock" because they use atomic oscillations, which are far more stable and less susceptible to environmental influences than a pendulum's swing.