robot

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'robot' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a machine that is able to perform tasks that are typically done by humans, such as manufacturing products and performing surgery. For example, "Doctors now rely on robots to complete complex procedures in medical surgeries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Equipped with four cameras, it is designed to be thrown through windows or over walls.Another throwable reconnaissance robot, the Scout XT Throwbot made by Recon Robotics, based in Edina, Minnesota, was one of the stars of the Ground Robotics Capabilities conference held in San Diego in March.

The Economist

A six-legged robot reduced to five legs, as in the picture, or a robotic arm broken in any of 14 different ways, discovered how to carry on their missions in less than two minutes of adjusting to their new limitations.

The Economist

Vision Robotics, a company based in San Diego, has demonstrated a prototype vine-pruning robot.

The Economist

Billy Crystal referred to the Robin Williams film about a robot who wants to become a human being: "it's called the Al Gore story".

The Guardian

Unless he learns the difference between the two, we're all in for a terrifying insight into the Murdochian mind: "son james robot" or "best cure piles".

The Guardian - Opinion

Although roughly three quarters of all science fiction is a dire warning of the destruction that will be wrought upon humanity by our own nut-nutted creations, humans continue to make the robot servant a reality.

The Guardian - Film

Throw in some elves, a mermaid, a few robot monks; dream up a land where dinosaurs still exist or the Nazis won the second world war.

The Guardian - Opinion

Iron Maiden have their own giant zombie robot, three lead guitarists and a bespoke bottled beer.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you were in a restaurant and your date wore a robot helmet, what would you do?

The Guardian - Music

I was at war with a robot version of myself.

The Guardian - Tech

Starring Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk, Chris Evans as Captain America and Scarlett Johansson as the Black Widow, Age of Ultron sets the titular superhero ensemble against titular intelligent robot villain Ultron, voiced by James Spader.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the capabilities of a "robot", use specific verbs like "operates", "performs", or "executes" to clearly define its actions.

Common error

Don't attribute human emotions or intentions to a "robot" unless it is explicitly designed to simulate them. Focus on its programmed functions and capabilities.

Linguistic Context

The word "robot" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a machine capable of carrying out complex tasks. Ludwig examples show it used to describe various machines, from "throwable reconnaissance robots" to "vine-pruning robots", showcasing its function in naming a diverse array of automated devices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

29%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "robot" is a very common noun with a neutral register, used to describe automated machines capable of performing complex tasks. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Usage spans across news, business, and scientific contexts, emphasizing the diverse roles robots play in modern society. When writing about robots, it's crucial to be specific about their functions and avoid anthropomorphism, ensuring clarity and accuracy in your descriptions. Alternatives like "automaton" or "robotic device" can add variety, but "robot" remains the most direct and widely understood term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Robotic system

Refers to a complete system incorporating robotic components.

Automated machine

Highlights the automated nature of the device.

Automaton

Refers to a self-operating machine or mechanism.

Self-operating machine

Emphasizes the machine's ability to function independently.

Mechanical being

Highlights the machine as an entity.

Mechanical device

A broader term encompassing any device operated mechanically.

Computerized mechanism

Focuses on the computerized control system.

Android

Specifically refers to a robot designed to resemble a human.

Cyborg

Implies a being that is both organic and mechanical.

Golems

An animated being from Jewish folklore, often considered a precursor to the modern robot.

FAQs

How to use "robot" in a sentence?

You can use "robot" as a noun to refer to a machine capable of carrying out a complex series of actions automatically. For example, "The factory uses a "robotic arm" to assemble the components."

What can I say instead of "robot"?

You can use alternatives like "automaton", "android", or "robotic device" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "robot" or "robotic machine"?

"Robot" is generally preferred and more concise. "Robotic machine" is acceptable but can be redundant as "robot" already implies a machine.

What's the difference between "robot" and "android"?

A "robot" is a general term for an automated machine. An "android" specifically refers to a robot designed to resemble a human.