What is electronic? Pronunciation and usage in English

electronic means . Learn how to pronounce and use electronic through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of electronic

electronicadjective

/ɪˌlɛkˈtrɒnɪk//ˌɛlɛkˈtrɒnɪk/
Definition & pronunciation of electronic

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "electronic." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is generally broken into three syllables:

  • el - like "ell" (as in "hello")
  • ec - like "ek" (as in "expect")
  • trin - like "trin" (rhymes with "thin")

2. Pronunciation Guide:

Here's the most common and accepted pronunciation:

  • /ɪˈlektrɪk/ (This is IPA, International Phonetic Alphabet - it's a system for representing sounds)

Let's break that IPA down:

  • ɪ - as in "bit" (a short, quick "i" sound)
  • ˈle - stress is on this syllable. "ell" as in "hello"
  • ktrɪk - “ek” as in “expect” followed by “trin” as in “thin” with a quick “i” sound at the end.

3. How to say it out loud:

  1. Start with a short "i" sound: Like in "bit." ("ɪ")
  2. Say "ell": "ell" ("le")
  3. Say "ek": "ek" ("ktrɪk")
  4. Say “trin” with a quick “i”: “trin” ("trin")

Putting it together: ɪ-le-ktrɪk

Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don’t pronounce “o”: A common mistake is to say something like "elec-TRON-ic." The "o" sound doesn't exist in the word.
  • The “trin” sound: Make sure the "trin" part sounds like “thin” but with a quick “i” at the end.
  • Stress: The emphasis (stress) is on the second syllable ("le"). This is crucial for sounding natural.

Resources for Hearing It:

  • Google Translate: Type "electronic" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear a native speaker pronounce it.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/electronic/ – This website has pronunciations from native speakers around the world.

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Are you a beginner English learner, or do you have some experience?

Usage and examples with the word electronic in English

Let's break down how to use the word "electronic" in English. It's a versatile word, but it's important to understand its nuances.

1. Core Meaning: Relating to Electronics

At its most basic, "electronic" refers to something that uses electricity to function. It's closely tied to the field of "electronics."

  • Examples:
    • "An electronic device" (like a computer, phone, or TV)
    • "The electronic music industry"
    • "He works with electronic components."

2. As an Adjective – Describing Things

This is the most common way you’ll use “electronic.” It describes something powered by or using electricity.

  • Here’s how it works with different noun types:

    • Equipment: "This is an electronic calculator." (It uses electricity to perform calculations.)
    • Systems: “The hospital uses electronic patient records.” (Record keeping that’s done with computers and digital systems)
    • Communication: “They sent a message via electronic mail.” (Email – a digital form of mail)
    • Music: “He plays electronic music.” (Music created using synthesizers and digital audio workstations)
    • Games: "Playing video games on an electronic console" (A game played on a device like a PlayStation or Xbox)
    • Tools: “An electronic scale” (A scale that uses electricity to measure weight)

3. “Electronic” vs. “Electrical” – A Key Distinction

This is a really important point! While often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference.

  • Electrical: Refers to the force of electricity itself – the flow of electrons. It’s about the raw energy. Think: wires, batteries, voltage, current.

  • Electronic: Refers to the technology that uses electricity to perform a task. It's about the devices and systems.

    • Example: "The electrical wiring is faulty." (Referring to the wires and how they conduct electricity.)
    • Example: "The electronic security system alerted the police." (Referring to the system that uses electricity to monitor and react.)

4. Common Phrases with “Electronic”

  • Electronic commerce (e-commerce): Online shopping.
  • Electronic data: Digital information.
  • Electronic surveillance: Monitoring using technology (cameras, microphones, etc.).
  • Electronic signature: A digital version of your signature.

5. Tips for Using “Electronic” Correctly

  • Think about what’s being powered: If something is powered by electricity, it’s good to use “electronic.”
  • Consider the level of detail: “Electrical” is better when you’re talking about the fundamental flow of electricity. "Electronic" is better when you’re talking about the device or system.
  • Read examples: The more you encounter the word in context, the more natural it will feel.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a report, a sentence about a specific device, etc.)
  • Are you struggling with a particular sentence where you’re using “electronic”? (If so, please share the sentence.)

Synonyms for the word electronic

Practice with vocabulary electronic

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Many modern offices are now paperless, relying heavily on __________ documents and communication.
  2. The company is investing in new __________ components to improve the efficiency of its circuits.
  3. The new security system uses a __________ fingerprint scanner for access control.
  4. The old factory still uses a lot of __________ machinery, which consumes a significant amount of power.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words can accurately describe a type of music produced using synthesizers and computers? A) Classical B) Acoustic C) Electronic D) Instrumental
  2. What kind of signature is legally recognized and used for online transactions? A) Wet B) Digital C) Electronic D) Manual
  3. A modern smart home system primarily relies on __________ components to control various devices. A) Mechanical B) Electronic C) Manual D) Hydraulic
  4. What term describes a system where data is represented by discrete values, typically binary digits? A) Analog B) Physical C) Digital D) Optical
  5. Which type of current flows in one direction only, commonly found in batteries? A) Alternating B) Direct C) Electrical D) Pulsating

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The company has transitioned to a system where all documents are managed digitally rather than on paper. Rewrite using "electronic" or a related word form:
  2. Original: Sending messages through email is much faster than traditional postal services. Rewrite using "electronic" or a related word form:
  3. Original: Many businesses are now conducting their sales transactions over the internet. Rewrite without using "electronic":

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. electronic
  2. electronic
  3. digital
  4. electrical

Exercise 2:

  1. C) Electronic
  2. B) Digital, C) Electronic
  3. B) Electronic
  4. C) Digital
  5. B) Direct

Exercise 3:

  1. The company has transitioned to an electronic document management system, reducing paper usage.
  2. Sending electronic messages/mail is much faster than traditional postal services.
  3. Many businesses are now conducting their sales transactions online.

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