appliance
B1Neutral to Formal
Definition
Meaning
A device or machine designed to perform a specific domestic or technical function, typically powered by electricity or gas.
The application or use of something; the action of putting something into operation. (Now rare, except in legal/technical contexts like 'appliance of science').
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily refers to domestic machines (white goods) but can extend to technical/medical devices. Implies a degree of complexity and fixed purpose. Not typically used for simple handheld tools (e.g., a screwdriver).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'appliance' strongly collocates with 'domestic' or 'electrical'. In the US, it is the default term for major kitchen/laundry machines (appliance store). The UK also uses 'white goods' for large domestic appliances.
Connotations
In both, it connotes functionality and utility. In medical contexts (surgical appliances), it is a formal term for prosthetics or aids.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English in domestic contexts. The phrase 'household appliance' is common in both.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
NOUN + of (the appliance of science)ADJ + appliance (electrical appliance)VERB + appliance (install/repair/use an appliance)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “the appliance of science (UK, dated/humorous: using scientific methods)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Refers to the manufacturing, retail, and repair sector (e.g., 'The appliance market saw a 5% growth').
Academic
Used in engineering, design, and home economics contexts (e.g., 'Ergonomics of domestic appliances').
Everyday
Common when discussing household chores, shopping, or repairs (e.g., 'We need a new kitchen appliance').
Technical
In engineering/medical fields for specific devices (e.g., 'orthopaedic appliance', 'pressure appliance').
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- N/A as verb. Archaic verb 'appliance' is not used.
American English
- N/A as verb.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A as adjective. Use 'applianc-' as a modifier (e.g., appliance repair technician).
American English
- N/A as adjective.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- We have a new appliance in the kitchen.
- This appliance uses a lot of electricity.
- The most important appliance in our home is the washing machine.
- You should unplug electrical appliances during a storm.
- The company specialises in manufacturing energy-efficient domestic appliances.
- Faulty appliances are a common cause of household fires.
- The proliferation of smart appliances raises concerns about data privacy and interoperability.
- His research focuses on the ergonomic design of surgical appliances.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: An APPLIANCE is something you APPLY to a task (like applying a washing machine to clean clothes).
Conceptual Metaphor
APPLIANCES ARE SERVANTS (they perform labour for the household).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as 'прибор' for all contexts; 'прибор' is broader (can mean instrument, device). For large household items, 'бытовая техника' is more accurate. 'Аппарат' is often for medical or complex technical devices.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'appliance' for small, simple tools (e.g., 'a can opener appliance' – use 'gadget'). Confusing 'appliance' with 'application' (software).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'appliance' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily, but not exclusively. Gas-powered ovens or heaters are also called appliances. The key is it's a machine for a specific domestic function.
'Device' is broader (can be electronic, simple, or portable like a phone). 'Appliance' suggests a standalone machine, often large, for a core household task (cooking, cleaning, cooling).
No, in modern English it is solely a noun. The related verb is 'apply'.
It's a somewhat dated or humorous British phrase meaning the practical application of scientific knowledge to solve a problem, popularised by a 1970s TV show.
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