vibration

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "vibration" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical sensation that is created when an object or surface is disturbed by a force and transmits its energy through a medium, such as a sound wave or an electrical impulse. For example, "The vibration of the tuning fork filled the room with sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A LIFETIME or even a few years down the pits left many coal miners with crippling illnesses lung diseases and vibration white finger, a debilitating numbness of hands caused by using vibrating drilling and cutting equipment.

The Economist

The carriages rattled with engine vibration and looked shoddy and cheap – evidence that northern England, which invented railway travel, has some of the worst rail infrastructure in Europe, now being put right only slowly and belatedly, despite all the talk of developing a "northern powerhouse".

The Guardian - Opinion

The Pebble Time is essentially a reinvention of the classic Casio watch – a simple timepiece that displays the time, obviously, with messages and alerts pushed via a gentle vibration to the wrist from a connected smartphone.

The Guardian - Tech

A woman who was working in the back of The Moonstruck restaurant two blocks away told the Guardian she had felt a "boom and a vibration" unlike anything she had felt before.

The Guardian

The component in question is the "taptic engine", a flagship feature for the watch that enables it to deliver silent notifications with a gentle tap on the wrist, as opposed to a typical vibration.

The Guardian - Tech

A tiny structure similar to a playground see-saw connects the fly's two sound sensors, and vibration on one side drives the other in the opposite direction.

The Economist

This involves covering the fibres with a reflective coating, and then controlling their vibration by applying electrical signals.

The Economist

That vibration can then be coupled to another structure to turn a rotor, which in turn operates a flagellum-like tail.

The Economist

MR fluids have also been suggested as a way to reduce vibration in surveillance satellites.

The Economist

They pick up vibration and sound, so they can identify advancing troops.

The Economist

The system currently under discussion is designed simply to provide motorists with feedback about hazardous situations through an audible alarm or rapid vibration of the steering wheel.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical phenomena, use "vibration" to refer to the rapid oscillation of particles or objects.

Common error

Avoid using "vibration" interchangeably with terms like "resonance" or "oscillation" without considering the specific context. "Resonance" implies amplified vibration, while "oscillation" describes a broader range of repetitive motions.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "vibration" is as a noun. It refers to a periodic motion or mechanical oscillation of an object about an equilibrium point. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, showcasing its common use in describing physical sensations and phenomena.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "vibration" functions primarily as a noun, denoting an oscillating movement or sensation. Ludwig AI affirms its correct and common usage across diverse contexts, from describing physical phenomena to emotional states. Its frequency is categorized as very common, with prominent use in News & Media and Science. Related terms include "oscillation", "tremor", and "shaking", each carrying nuances in intensity and type of movement. When writing, remember to use "vibration" precisely, differentiating it from similar terms like "resonance". This analysis underscores the importance of context-aware language use, as summarized by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

oscillation

Focuses on the repetitive movement between two points.

tremor

Implies a slight, involuntary shaking movement.

quivering

Suggests a rapid, slight trembling motion.

shaking

Describes a more forceful and noticeable movement.

palpitation

Specifically refers to a rapid beating or throbbing, often related to the heart.

fluttering

Describes a light, rapid, and irregular movement.

pulsation

Emphasizes a rhythmic throbbing or beating.

resonance

Highlights the amplification of a vibration when the frequency matches the natural frequency of an object.

wavering

Suggests an unsteady or fluctuating movement.

fluctuation

Indicates irregular variations or changes.

FAQs

How is "vibration" used in a sentence?

The word "vibration" is used to describe a rapid oscillating movement or sensation. For example, "The machine's "vibration" caused the entire room to shake."

What words can I use instead of "vibration"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "vibration" include "oscillation", "tremor", or "shaking".

Which is correct, "vibration" or "tremor"?

Both "vibration" and "tremor" are correct, but they describe different intensities and types of movement. "Vibration" generally refers to a rapid oscillation, while "tremor" suggests a slight, involuntary shaking.

What is the difference between "vibration" and "resonance"?

"Vibration" is a general term for oscillating movement. "Resonance", on the other hand, is a specific phenomenon where the amplitude of a vibration increases when the frequency of an external force matches the natural frequency of the object.