compass: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Formal, Technical, Literary
Quick answer
What does “compass” mean?
A device with a magnetised pointer that shows the direction of magnetic north, used for navigation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device with a magnetised pointer that shows the direction of magnetic north, used for navigation.
A device for drawing circles; the range or scope of something; a boundary or limit.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The drawing instrument is 'a pair of compasses' (BrE), 'compasses' (AmE). 'Compass' for navigation is identical.
Connotations
Identical. Both strongly connote navigation, guidance, and direction.
Frequency
Slightly more common in AmE in compound terms like 'compass rose' (cartography).
Grammar
How to Use “compass” in a Sentence
NN + of + N (the compass of her voice)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “compass” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The old tales compass a world of mystery.
- It would be difficult to compass such a feat.
American English
- The novel attempts to compass the entirety of the war.
- He sought to compass his rival's downfall.
adverb
British English
- No standard adverbial form in modern use.
American English
- No standard adverbial form in modern use.
adjective
British English
- The explorer took careful compass readings.
- A compass bearing of 270 degrees.
American English
- Check the compass direction before proceeding.
- Ensure the compass card is rotating freely.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used metaphorically for strategic direction ('Our new mission statement provides a clear moral compass for the company').
Academic
Used in geography, navigation, and metaphorically in literature/philosophy ('The novel explores the full compass of human emotions').
Everyday
Referring to the physical object for hiking or orienteering ('Don't forget to pack the compass!').
Technical
Precision instrument in surveying, drafting, and marine/aviation navigation ('The aircraft's flux gate compass').
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “compass”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “compass”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “compass”
- Using 'compass' as a countable plural without 'pair of' (BrE) ('I need a compass' vs. 'I need a pair of compasses'). Confusing 'compass' (direction) with 'compass' (drawing tool).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it has three main uses: 1) a navigational instrument, 2) a drawing instrument (usually 'compasses'), and 3) a metaphorical term meaning 'scope' or 'range'.
Typically, 'compass' (singular) refers to the navigational device. 'Compasses' (plural) usually refers to the drawing instrument, especially in British English, where 'a pair of compasses' is standard.
It is an idiom referring to a person's internal sense of right and wrong, which guides their behaviour and decisions.
Yes, but it is formal/archaic. It means 'to accomplish' or 'to contrive' ('to compass a plan') or 'to go around' ('to compass the globe').
A device with a magnetised pointer that shows the direction of magnetic north, used for navigation.
Compass is usually formal, technical, literary in register.
Compass: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkʌmpəs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkʌmpəs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “moral compass”
- “box the compass”
- “beyond the compass of”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
"COMPASS" contains "PASS". To PASS through unknown territory, you need a COMPASS.
Conceptual Metaphor
GUIDANCE IS A COMPASS (e.g., 'His advice was my compass').
Practice
Quiz
In British English, what is the most natural way to refer to the instrument for drawing circles?