system of systems

USAGE SUMMARY

'system of systems' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a system which consists of multiple distinct sub-systems that interact with each other, or a large complex system which is composed of multiple smaller simpler systems. For example, "The system of systems enabled us to control operations from multiple sites."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

A system of systems.

The New York Times - Sports

A city should be considered a "system of systems".

The Guardian

"Dr. Postol," the statement said, "is not considering all the capabilities of our system of systems".

The New York Times

The Future of National Infrastructure: A System Of Systems Approach (Cambridge Univ. Press, 2016).

Nature

No country wishing to challenge America could now afford to build a "system of systems".

The Economist

He is currently overseeing large scale system of systems strategies toward a boundary-less enterprise.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Otto, A. et al. A quantified system-of-systems modeling framework for robust national infrastructure planning.

Nature

Cyber-physical system-of-systems that combine both physics and controls form the basis of modern society.

Columbia University

The evolving nature of system-of-systems requirements and corresponding architecture, and the complex causal relationship between the architecture of system-of-systems and its emergent behavior make the problem of system-of-systems architecture development a great challenge.

Procedia Computer Science

The modeling alternatives for system-of-systems, integrated versus coupled models, are discussed.

Reliability Engineering & System Safety

This paper presents a novel robust optimization framework to architecting a System-of-Systems (SoS).

Procedia Computer Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In cases where a specific attribute like 'integration' is crucial, consider related phrases such as "integrated system" for conciseness.

Common error

Avoid using "system of systems" when a simpler term like "system" or "network" is sufficient. Overusing technical jargon can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "system of systems" functions as a noun phrase that describes a complex entity composed of multiple independent systems working together. Ludwig AI validates its correct and usable structure. Examples show it describing infrastructures, technologies and organizations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

33%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "system of systems" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term, particularly in scientific, news, and academic contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a correct and effective way to describe complex, interconnected systems. When using this phrase, ensure that the context warrants the technical precision it implies. While alternatives such as "integrated system" or "complex network of systems" exist, they may not fully capture the hierarchical and interdependent nature inherent in a "system of systems". Remember to avoid overuse in contexts where a simpler term suffices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

integrated system

Focuses on the integration aspect, omitting the explicit hierarchical structure.

complex network of systems

Emphasizes the network characteristic and complexity.

interconnected systems

Highlights the interconnectedness without specifying hierarchy or complexity.

hierarchical system

Highlights the hierarchical aspect, possibly omitting the interconnectedness.

federated system

Suggests a system composed of independent parts working together.

networked system

Focuses on the network structure, less on the systemic nature.

composite system

Emphasizes the result of combination, not the interaction.

system architecture

Refers to the design or structure of a system, not the system itself.

holistic system

Stresses the completeness and integration, less on the multiple system aspect.

umbrella system

Implies a system that oversees and encompasses other systems.

FAQs

How is "system of systems" different from a regular system?

A "system of systems" describes a collection of independent systems that work together to achieve a common goal, whereas a regular system is a single, self-contained unit. It emphasizes the interaction and interdependence of multiple systems.

When is it appropriate to use the term "system of systems"?

Use "system of systems" when referring to a complex entity composed of multiple independent systems that interact to provide capabilities that no single system can deliver on its own. This is common in engineering, defense, and urban planning.

What are some alternatives to "system of systems"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "integrated system", "complex network of systems", or "interconnected systems".

Is "system of systems" a formal term?

Yes, "system of systems" is considered a formal term, particularly in engineering, systems science, and related technical fields. It's frequently used in academic papers, technical reports, and professional discussions.