satellite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "satellite" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing technology, astronomy, or communication systems. Example: "The satellite successfully launched into orbit, providing essential data for climate research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

North Korea's state media often boasts of successful military and space accomplishments, including the launch of a functional communications satellite, which are not independently verified by outside experts.

The Guardian

The US satellite photos showed Russian troops at bases 50 miles from the border.

The Guardian

His satellite tags had provided vivid new information of the remarkable distances travelled by these unpredictable predators during their brief lives.

The Guardian

A team of US scientists looked at 18 years' worth of satellite data and found the floating ice shelves that skirt the continent are losing 310km3 of ice every year.

The Guardian

Amnesty says the satellite image analysis adds to a growing body of evidence of potential war crimes in the Syria conflict.

The Guardian

"We can expect to see a surge in Chinese investment in the Amazon in this manner in years to come". Louis Reymondin is the main developer of a satellite imagery programme called Terra-i, which is used by governments and environmental groups to monitor deforestation, and he said the technology offers a dose of optimism.

The Guardian

"[Russia] thinks strategically", he said, "and they are taking the right approach by using their expertise in everything from arms to nuclear power to satellite technology in order to ensure mutually advantageous cooperation with strategic African partners.

The Guardian

He also urged the EU to "embrace Turkey", and added, provocatively: "If Russia did not join the west, it will become a satellite of China".

The Guardian

This withered with satellite communications and died when everyone began to research and speak to each other online.

The Guardian

They claimed that "over recent decades" tide gauges show sea level is going up by about 1 mm per year and satellite data shows an annual rise of 2 to 3 mm.

The Guardian

It is the march of BBC World News – the corporation's commercially funded English-language TV news station, which airs on cable and satellite around the world outside the UK – that domestic News channel staffers perhaps fear the most.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific alternatives like "artificial satellite" or "orbiting spacecraft" to be more specific.

Common error

Avoid using "satellite" without specifying whether it's a natural satellite (like a moon) or an artificial one. Always provide context to clarify which type you are referring to.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "satellite" is as a noun, referring to a natural or artificial object orbiting a celestial body. As Ludwig AI explains, examples show it used to describe communications, weather, and political dependencies. Its versatility extends to technological and geographical contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "satellite" is a noun widely used across various contexts, primarily in news and media. It refers to both natural and artificial objects orbiting celestial bodies, as well as entities dependent on others. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and versatility. When writing, it's essential to clarify the type of "satellite" you're referencing. Alternatives like "artificial satellite" or "satellite state" can provide greater precision. With examples from authoritative sources like The Guardian, the usage of "satellite" is very common and consistently applied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

artificial satellite

Specifies that the satellite is man-made rather than a natural celestial body.

orbiting spacecraft

Focuses on the spacecraft's action of orbiting around a celestial body.

communications satellite

Highlights the specific function of the satellite for relaying communications.

geostationary satellite

Indicates a satellite that remains in a fixed position relative to the Earth.

weather satellite

Specifies a satellite used for monitoring weather patterns.

satellite television

Focuses on the technology of receiving television signals via satellite.

satellite imagery

Highlights the use of satellite-acquired images for various purposes.

dependent territory

Refers to a region or country that is politically or economically reliant on another.

satellite state

Emphasizes the political control or influence of one state over another.

subsidiary company

Indicates a company controlled by a parent company.

FAQs

How can I use "satellite" in a sentence about space exploration?

You can say, "The data collected by the orbiting "satellite" is crucial for understanding the Martian atmosphere."

What is the difference between a "satellite" and a spacecraft?

While a "satellite" is any object orbiting a celestial body, a spacecraft is a broader term referring to any vehicle designed for space travel. Not all spacecraft are satellites, but all satellites are spacecraft.

What's a good alternative to "satellite" when talking about a country under another's influence?

In political contexts, you can use "satellite state" to describe a country under the political or economic influence of another, more powerful nation.

How does "satellite" internet compare to cable internet?

"Satellite" internet is often more widely available in rural areas, whereas cable internet typically offers faster speeds in urban and suburban environments.