breakerless ignition: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical / Specialized
Quick answer
What does “breakerless ignition” mean?
An automotive ignition system that operates without mechanical contact points (breakers) to trigger the spark.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An automotive ignition system that operates without mechanical contact points (breakers) to trigger the spark.
A type of electronic ignition system in internal combustion engines where the timing and generation of the high-voltage spark for the spark plugs is controlled electronically, typically by a magnetic or Hall-effect sensor and a control module, eliminating the need for traditional mechanical breaker points.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is used identically in both automotive engineering contexts.
Connotations
Technical, possibly dated (as most modern vehicles use even more advanced systems).
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, confined to technical manuals, classic car restoration, and automotive engineering texts.
Grammar
How to Use “breakerless ignition” in a Sentence
The [vehicle/model] has a breakerless ignition.They converted the [engine] to breakerless ignition.A fault in the breakerless ignition caused the misfire.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “breakerless ignition” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The breakerless-ignition module was sourced from a specialist.
- It's a breakerless-ignition conversion.
American English
- The breakerless ignition module was sourced from a specialist.
- It's a breakerless ignition conversion.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in engineering papers discussing historical automotive technology.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Primary context. Used in repair manuals, engineering specifications, and among classic car enthusiasts discussing ignition system upgrades.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “breakerless ignition”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “breakerless ignition”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “breakerless ignition”
- Misspelling as 'breakless ignition' or 'brakerless ignition'.
- Using it as a general term for any electronic ignition, though it specifically denotes the first generation that replaced points.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Breakerless ignition was an intermediate step. Modern engines typically use Distributorless Ignition Systems (DIS) or Coil-On-Plug (COP) systems, which are more advanced.
The main advantages over points ignition are: no points to wear out or adjust, more consistent spark timing, higher possible engine speeds, and reduced maintenance.
For classic cars originally equipped with points, aftermarket 'conversion kits' are widely available to retrofit a breakerless ignition system.
No. 'Breaker' here refers specifically to the mechanical 'contact breaker' points. The system is electronic and can still have component failures.
An automotive ignition system that operates without mechanical contact points (breakers) to trigger the spark.
Breakerless ignition is usually technical / specialized in register.
Breakerless ignition: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbreɪkələs ɪɡˈnɪʃ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbreɪkərləs ɪɡˈnɪʃ(ə)n/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'BREAKER-LESS' = 'Without a circuit breaker (points) to start the IGNITION.'
Conceptual Metaphor
TECHNOLOGICAL EVOLUTION IS PROGRESS (from mechanical, wear-prone parts to electronic, maintenance-free systems).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary component eliminated in a 'breakerless ignition' system?