prototype

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "prototype" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use "prototype" to refer to an early sample, model, or release of a product that is developed to test a concept and a design which can then be used for reference or/and for further development. Example: The company developed a prototype of the new product before releasing it to the public to test out its features.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Musk has expressed his intent to develop a prototype Hyperloop, and judging by his work with SpaceX and Tesla Motors, if anyone can make it work, Musk can.

The Guardian

At the time of the Gear launch Ian Fogg, director for mobile and telecoms at research company IHS commented that the Gear was "a prototype masquerading as a commercial product and because of that, it is unlikely to be successful in the market".

The Guardian - Tech

The film-makers explained that they had used prototype cameras in order to shoot portions of the drama covertly in Glasgow's nightclubs and shopping centres.

The Guardian - Film

Creating partnerships A great global health innovation is nothing unless it is used and a US-Zambian research partnershiphas expressed an interest in testing Amplino in the field once the prototype is fully developed.

The Guardian

This would push up the price of the prototype, which currently is about €270.

The Guardian

She's seen as the prototype of the long-suffering wife and virtuous mother.

The Guardian

But they are more likely to find military applications such as BARS (Battlefield Augmented Reality System): "a fully-functional prototype of a multi-user, distributed, wearable computer infrastructure for warfighters operating in the urban environment".

The Guardian - Tech

It's an idea so brilliant the team won a Seed award in 2010, just six months after their first prototype, and have since gone on to win 10 other awards internationally.

The Guardian

It will be used throughout its lifespan as a pilot for prototype construction systems, components and technologies.

The Guardian

The fundamental design of the piano has remained unchanged for about 130 years, following 200 years of evolution from Bartolomeo Cristofori di Francesco's prototype of around 1700.

The Guardian - Music

In 1994, Namco also developed an arcade board named System 11, which was based on the prototype PlayStation specifications.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the stage of development, use "prototype" to emphasize that the item is a preliminary version designed for testing and refinement.

Common error

Avoid using "prototype" to describe a final, fully-realized product. The term implies that further development or changes are expected.

Linguistic Context

The word "prototype" functions primarily as a noun, referring to an original model on which later versions are patterned. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where "prototype" is used to describe early versions or experimental models.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

32%

Science

32%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "prototype" functions as a noun, frequently used to describe an initial model or version of a product or design. Ludwig AI validates its widespread usage in news, business, and scientific contexts. When writing, remember that "prototype" signifies an early-stage model, implying further development is anticipated. For similar concepts, consider alternatives such as "initial model" or "early version", depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. The prevalence and consistent application of "prototype" in authoritative sources indicate its grammatical correctness and versatility in describing preliminary models or designs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial model

Focuses on the preliminary aspect of a model.

early version

Emphasizes the temporal aspect of being one of the first versions.

test model

Highlights the purpose of the model being for testing.

experimental model

Indicates the model is for experimental purposes.

pilot project

Implies a project that serves as a test case for a larger initiative.

proof of concept

Stresses the demonstration of feasibility.

trial version

Highlights that the version is for a limited trial period.

sample product

Indicates a representative item for evaluation.

mock-up

A visual representation, often not fully functional.

first draft

Emphasizes the initial stage of a design or plan.

FAQs

How is "prototype" used in a sentence?

The term "prototype" typically refers to an initial version or model of a product or system. For example, "The company developed a prototype to test its new technology."

What are some alternatives to the word "prototype"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "initial model", "early version", or "test model".

What is the difference between a "prototype" and a "final product"?

A "prototype" is a preliminary version used for testing and refinement, while a "final product" is the fully developed and ready-to-market version.

When is it appropriate to use the word "prototype"?

Use "prototype" when describing a preliminary model or version that is still undergoing testing and development, not when referring to the finished product.