coupling: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal / Technical
Quick answer
What does “coupling” mean?
A connection or device that joins two things together, allowing motion or force to be transmitted.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A connection or device that joins two things together, allowing motion or force to be transmitted.
The act or state of linking or combining two systems, people, ideas, or components, often implying interaction or interdependence.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Slight preference in UK English for 'coupling' in railway contexts (train carriages). US English more frequently uses 'coupler' for mechanical devices. The abstract/systems meaning is equally common in both.
Connotations
Neutral to technical in both varieties. Can have a slightly mechanical or impersonal connotation when applied to human relationships.
Frequency
Moderately low in everyday conversation, but high-frequency in engineering, physics, computing, and academic writing.
Grammar
How to Use “coupling” in a Sentence
the coupling of [NP] and [NP]a coupling between [NP] and [NP][NP] couplingcoupling [NP] to [NP]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coupling” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The technician is coupling the new car to the train.
- Researchers are coupling the data set with the latest model.
American English
- They're coupling the trailer to the truck now.
- The software update couples the app with the cloud service.
adverb
British English
- [Rarely used as an adverb]
American English
- [Rarely used as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- The coupling rod needs lubrication.
- We observed a coupling effect in the experiment.
American English
- Check the coupling flange for damage.
- The study focused on coupling dynamics.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to the interdependence of departments, markets, or economic indicators (e.g., 'The coupling of our sales and marketing strategies improved outcomes').
Academic
Widely used in systems theory, physics (e.g., spin-spin coupling), biology, and sociology to describe interacting variables or components.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used for train parts or, humorously, for two people starting a relationship.
Technical
Core term in mechanical engineering (a device connecting shafts), electronics (transfer of energy between circuits), and software architecture (degree of dependency between modules).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “coupling”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “coupling”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coupling”
- Using 'couple' as a noun to mean the connector (need 'coupling').
- Misspelling as 'coupleing'.
- Using in overly casual contexts where 'link' or 'connection' is more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While its origin is mechanical, it is extensively used for abstract systems, ideas, and relationships (e.g., 'the coupling of theory and practice').
A 'joint' is often a static or rigid connection (like in woodwork or anatomy). A 'coupling' typically connects moving parts (like rotating shafts) and is designed to transmit force/motion, sometimes allowing for flexibility.
Yes, the verb is 'to couple'. 'Coupling' is the present participle or gerund form (e.g., 'They are coupling the devices').
It describes a system where components are minimally dependent on each other's internal workings. This increases flexibility and makes the system easier to modify and maintain.
A connection or device that joins two things together, allowing motion or force to be transmitted.
Coupling is usually formal / technical in register.
Coupling: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkʌplɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkʌplɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms. Technical phrase 'loose coupling' is key in systems design.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a couple on a train: the 'coupling' is what links their carriage to the next one.
Conceptual Metaphor
RELATIONSHIPS ARE MECHANICAL CONNECTIONS (e.g., 'Their partnership was a tight coupling').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'tight coupling' generally considered a BAD design?