monocable: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low/Very LowTechnical/Specialized
Quick answer
What does “monocable” mean?
A single, strong cable used as the main supporting or lifting element in a transport or construction system, such as a ski lift, gondola, or aerial tramway.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A single, strong cable used as the main supporting or lifting element in a transport or construction system, such as a ski lift, gondola, or aerial tramway.
Refers specifically to a type of ropeway or cable transport system where the same cable performs the dual functions of supporting and propelling the cabins or chairs. It can also refer to the cable itself when used in such a context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is identical in spelling, pronunciation, and meaning in both varieties. Usage is dictated entirely by technical context, not regional dialect.
Connotations
Conveys precision, engineering efficiency, and specific mechanical design. No emotional or cultural connotations beyond its technical domain.
Frequency
Equally rare and technical in both BrE and AmE. Likely to be encountered only in relevant industries, technical manuals, or specific tourism contexts (e.g., ski resorts).
Grammar
How to Use “monocable” in a Sentence
The [noun] uses/has/employs a monocable.A monocable [verbs] the cabins.The [noun] is a monocable system.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “monocable” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The resort is investing in a new monocable lift.
- The monocable design is more cost-effective for this terrain.
American English
- The mountain upgrade includes a monocable gondola.
- We need to review the monocable system specifications.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in contracts, project proposals, or procurement documents for ski resorts, mountainous tourist attractions, or industrial material transport.
Academic
Found in engineering textbooks, journal articles on transport systems, or technical papers on mechanical design and safety.
Everyday
Virtually never used. A tourist might hear it at a ski resort information desk or on a technical signage.
Technical
Primary domain. Used to specify the type of cable propulsion/support system in design, manufacturing, maintenance, and operational manuals.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “monocable”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “monocable”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “monocable”
- Misspelling as 'monocable' (correct), 'mono-cable', or 'mono cable'. The solid form 'monocable' is standard in technical English.
- Using it as a general term for any thick cable.
- Confusing it with 'monofilament' (a single strand) in non-technical conversation.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a highly specialized technical term used almost exclusively in the context of cable transport systems like ski lifts and gondolas.
A monocable uses a single cable for both support and propulsion. A bicable system uses one stationary cable for support and a separate, moving cable for propulsion.
Yes, it can refer to the specific, heavy-duty cable used in such a system, though it more precisely describes the entire system type. In conversation, 'the monocable' often means the cable.
No, there is no significant difference. It is a technical international term with identical meaning and very low frequency in both varieties.
A single, strong cable used as the main supporting or lifting element in a transport or construction system, such as a ski lift, gondola, or aerial tramway.
Monocable is usually technical/specialized in register.
Monocable: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɒn.əʊˌkeɪ.bəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɑː.noʊˌkeɪ.bəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MONO (single) CABLE carrying a ski lift. One cable to rule them all – it holds and moves the chairs.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MONORAIL in the air; a single, definitive path of support and movement.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would you most likely encounter the word 'monocable'?