cashpoint: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal, everyday
Quick answer
What does “cashpoint” mean?
An automated machine in a public place, typically outside a bank, that dispenses cash when an individual inserts their bank card and enters a personal identification number (PIN).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An automated machine in a public place, typically outside a bank, that dispenses cash when an individual inserts their bank card and enters a personal identification number (PIN).
A physical interface for accessing one's bank account funds electronically; can also refer metaphorically to a source of readily available money.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
'Cashpoint' is predominantly British English. The standard American English term is 'ATM' or 'bank machine'. 'Cashpoint' is a trademark of Lloyds Banking Group in the UK but is often used generically.
Connotations
In the UK, 'cashpoint' is neutral and common. In the US, using 'cashpoint' might sound slightly British or dated.
Frequency
High frequency in UK English; low frequency in US English, where 'ATM' is overwhelmingly dominant.
Grammar
How to Use “cashpoint” in a Sentence
VERB + cashpoint (use, find, approach, stand at)cashpoint + NOUN (machine, location, charges, network)PREP. at/to the cashpointVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cashpoint” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A – not used as a verb.
American English
- N/A – not used as a verb.
adverb
British English
- N/A – not used as an adverb.
American English
- N/A – not used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- N/A – not standardly used as an adjective.
American English
- N/A – not standardly used as an adjective.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; formal contexts use 'ATM' or 'automated teller machine'.
Academic
Very rare; the technical term 'ATM' is standard.
Everyday
Very common in UK English for casual conversation.
Technical
Not used; 'ATM', 'Automated Teller Machine', or 'cash dispenser' are preferred.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cashpoint”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cashpoint”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cashpoint”
- Using 'cashpoint' in American English contexts where it sounds foreign. Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I need to cashpoint' is incorrect; use 'withdraw' or 'get money').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for all practical purposes in UK English. 'ATM' is the more international and technical term.
You will be understood, but it will immediately identify you as a UK English speaker. 'ATM' is the universal term in American English.
No, it is an informal, everyday term. In formal writing, 'ATM' or 'automated teller machine' is preferred.
In the UK, they are virtually synonyms. 'Cashpoint' is a branded term that became generic (like 'hoover'). Some may perceive 'cash machine' as slightly more formal or generic.
An automated machine in a public place, typically outside a bank, that dispenses cash when an individual inserts their bank card and enters a personal identification number (PIN).
Cashpoint: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkæʃpɔɪnt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæʃpɔɪnt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Become a human cashpoint (to be seen only as a source of money)”
- “Live out of a cashpoint (to rely on frequent cash withdrawals)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a POINT where you get CASH. It's a spot (point) for cash.
Conceptual Metaphor
MACHINE IS A TELLER / PUBLIC SPACE IS A BANK BRANCH
Practice
Quiz
Which term is LEAST likely to be used in the United States?