answering machine: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral, used in all registers from informal to formal, though physical devices are now less common.
Quick answer
What does “answering machine” mean?
An electronic device that automatically answers telephone calls and records messages from callers when the recipient is unavailable.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An electronic device that automatically answers telephone calls and records messages from callers when the recipient is unavailable.
Can refer to the digital voicemail service on mobile or landline phones, functionally replacing physical devices. May be used metaphorically to describe an unresponsive person.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both use 'answering machine' and 'voicemail'. 'Ansaphone' (from the brand 'Ansafone') was once a common genericised trademark in the UK but is now dated.
Connotations
In both, the term can feel slightly dated, associated with 1980s/90s technology. 'Voicemail' is perceived as more modern.
Frequency
'Voicemail' is now significantly more frequent in both varieties for the service. 'Answering machine' retains a specific reference to a physical device, especially in American English.
Grammar
How to Use “answering machine” in a Sentence
turn on/off the answering machinelisten to [messages on] the answering machinerecord [a greeting] on the answering machineVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “answering machine” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He recorded an answering-machine greeting.
- The answering-machine tape was full.
American English
- She has an answering-machine voice.
- The answering-machine message was unclear.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Professional voicemail greetings are standard. 'Please leave your name, number, and a brief message after the tone.'
Academic
Rare except in historical or sociological discussions of communication technology.
Everyday
Common in domestic contexts: 'Did anyone call? Check the answering machine.'
Technical
Refers to hardware/software for call handling in telecoms.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “answering machine”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “answering machine”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “answering machine”
- Using 'answering machine' for a live person who answers calls frequently (that is a 'receptionist'). Confusing 'answering machine' (device/service) with 'caller ID' (display).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are functionally similar, but 'answering machine' typically refers to a physical device, while 'voicemail' is a digital service, often network-based. 'Voicemail' is now the more common term.
Both 'answering machine' and 'answerphone' are used in British English. 'Answerphone' was once a proprietary brand name that became generic. Today, 'voicemail' is common in both the UK and US.
As a term for the physical device, its use is declining. However, the concept remains, and the term is still understood and used, often interchangeably with 'voicemail', especially by older speakers or when referring to older technology.
No, 'answering machine' is exclusively a noun. You cannot say 'I will answering machine you'. The correct verb phrases are 'leave a voicemail' or 'leave a message on the answering machine'.
An electronic device that automatically answers telephone calls and records messages from callers when the recipient is unavailable.
Answering machine is usually neutral, used in all registers from informal to formal, though physical devices are now less common. in register.
Answering machine: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɑːnsərɪŋ məʃiːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈænsərɪŋ məˌʃiːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “I'm just a human answering machine.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a machine that ANSWERS for you when you're not there. It's like a robot secretary.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MACHINE IS A SUBSTITUTE PERSON (It performs the human act of answering).
Practice
Quiz
Which term is LEAST likely to be used for a modern smartphone's message recording feature?