remote control: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
HighNeutral to Informal
Quick answer
What does “remote control” mean?
A handheld device used to operate electronic equipment, such as a television or stereo, from a distance without physical connection.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A handheld device used to operate electronic equipment, such as a television or stereo, from a distance without physical connection.
The capability or technology for controlling systems or devices remotely, often applied in robotics, automation, or metaphorical contexts of indirect influence.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, informal terms include 'remote' or 'zapper'. In American English, informal terms include 'remote' or 'clicker'. The full term 'remote control' is standard in both.
Connotations
Neutral in formal contexts; informal terms like 'zapper' or 'clicker' add a colloquial, friendly tone.
Frequency
'Remote' is more frequent in casual speech in both dialects, while 'remote control' is common in written and formal contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “remote control” in a Sentence
control [device] with a remote controluse a remote control for [purpose]remote control of [system]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “remote control” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Can you remote control the heating from your mobile?
American English
- You can remote-control the lights using this application.
adverb
British English
- The surveillance camera is monitored remotely from the office.
American English
- She adjusts the thermostat remotely via her smartphone.
adjective
British English
- The children played with a remote-controlled toy car.
American English
- We purchased a remote-control helicopter for recreation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Remote controls are marketed as essential accessories for home entertainment systems.
Academic
Research in robotics focuses on advanced remote control mechanisms for unmanned vehicles.
Everyday
I can't find the remote control, so I have to change the channel manually.
Technical
The drone's remote control operates on a 2.4 GHz frequency for stable communication.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “remote control”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “remote control”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “remote control”
- Using 'remote controller' instead of 'remote control' in standard English.
- Incorrect verb usage: 'I remote control the TV' should be 'I use the remote control to operate the TV' or 'I control the TV remotely.'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, informally, as in 'to remote control something,' but it is more standard to use 'control remotely' or 'use a remote control.'
'Remote' is a common abbreviation for 'remote control' in casual conversation, while 'remote control' is the full term used in formal contexts.
When used as an adjective, it is often hyphenated, e.g., 'remote-controlled device.' As a noun, it is typically not hyphenated.
In British English, it is pronounced as /rɪˈməʊt kənˈtrəʊl/.
A handheld device used to operate electronic equipment, such as a television or stereo, from a distance without physical connection.
Remote control is usually neutral to informal in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “on remote control”
- “to live a remote control life”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Remote' means far, 'control' means command, so it commands from far away.
Conceptual Metaphor
Remote control as a metaphor for indirect power or management, e.g., 'He leads the team by remote control.'
Practice
Quiz
Which informal term is commonly used for 'remote control' in American English?