What is machinery? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of machinery

machinerynoun

/məˈʃiːn(ə)ri/
Definition & pronunciation of machinery

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

1. The Core Sounds:

  • Ma: Pronounced like "mah" (as in "father")
  • ch: This is a tricky sound! It’s the sound you make when you’re clearing your throat gently. Think of it like a light, raspy "ch" – similar to the "ch" in "chair" but shorter and less forceful.
  • i: Pronounced like "ih" (as in "bit")
  • ne: Pronounced like "nee" (as in "knee")
  • ry: Pronounced like "ree" (as in "read")

2. Putting it Together (Slowly):

  1. Mah - Say "mah" clearly.
  2. ch – Make that light, raspy "ch" sound.
  3. ih - Say "ih" quickly after the "ch."
  4. nee - Say "nee"
  5. ree - Say "ree"

3. The Combined Pronunciation:

The whole word flows together something like this: mah-CHEE-nah-REE

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't overemphasize the "ch": It's a subtle sound. Too much force will make it sound like "chair."
  • Don't link the "ch" and the "i": Keep them separate.
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: mah.

Resources to Listen:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/machinery/ - This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word.
  • YouTube: Search on YouTube for "how to pronounce machinery" - you'll find many videos.

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

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning?
  • What's your native language? (Knowing this can help me identify potential pronunciation challenges you might be facing.)

Usage and examples with the word machinery in English

Let's break down how to use the word "machinery" in English. It's a useful word with a specific meaning.

1. Core Definition:

  • Machinery refers to a collection of mechanical devices or equipment used to perform a specific task or set of tasks. It's essentially a system of moving parts designed to do work.

2. Common Usages:

Here's how you can use "machinery" in sentences, categorized for clarity:

  • Industrial/Manufacturing Context: This is where you'll most often find the word.
    • "The factory relied on complex machinery to produce its goods."
    • "Maintenance crews were busy repairing the machinery in the assembly line."
    • “The new printing machinery increased our production speed.”
  • Transportation:
    • "The train’s machinery included the engine, wheels, and braking system."
    • "The ship’s machinery was damaged in the storm."
  • General Mechanical Systems: It can extend beyond just factories.
    • "The machinery of the body is incredibly complex." (Referring to the systems within the human body – digestive, circulatory, etc.) – Note: This usage is a bit more figurative.
    • "The car’s machinery is due for a service." (Referring to the engine and related parts)
  • Figurative/Abstract (Less Common): Sometimes, "machinery" is used metaphorically to describe a complicated process or system, especially one that seems impersonal or automated.
    • “The machinery of bureaucracy made it impossible to get a simple permit.” (Here, it’s referring to the layers of rules and procedures.)
    • "The machinery of the stock market was in chaos.” (Referring to the complex interactions of buyers and sellers)

3. Key Points & Distinctions:

  • Synonyms: Words like "equipment," "apparatus," "devices," "systems," and "technology" can often be used interchangeably with "machinery," but "machinery" specifically implies a mechanical collection of parts.
  • "Machine" vs. "Machinery": A "machine" is a single, specific piece of equipment (e.g., a lathe, a drill). "Machinery" refers to a group of machines or a larger system.
  • Plural: “Machinery” is generally treated as singular – “The machinery is working well.” (You can use it in the plural, but it’s less common and can sound a bit formal: "The machineries were outdated.")

4. Examples Putting it Together:

  • "The company invested heavily in new machinery to improve efficiency."
  • "The cardiologist examined the patient's heart machinery to determine the cause of the problem.”
  • "We need a thorough inspection of the machinery before the plant restarts."

Resources for More Information:

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

  • What is the context in which you want to use the word “machinery”? (e.g., writing a report, having a conversation, etc.)

Synonyms for the word machinery

Practice with vocabulary machinery

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The advanced manufacturing facility relies heavily on automated production ________ to streamline its operations.
  2. During the maintenance check, technicians discovered a critical flaw in the hydraulic ________, requiring immediate repair.
  3. Investing in new, energy-efficient agricultural ________ is crucial for increasing crop yield and reducing operational costs.
  4. Before starting the experiment, ensure all safety ________ are in place and properly calibrated.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following terms can describe the complex mechanical systems found in a modern factory production line? a) Appliances b) Machinery c) Equipment d) Gadgets

  2. When discussing the tools and apparatus required for a scientific experiment in a laboratory, which terms are most appropriate? a) Instrumentation b) Devices c) Machinery d) Gear

  3. The company decided to upgrade its entire fleet of production ________ to increase efficiency and reduce manual labor. a) paraphernalia b) mechanisms c) machinery d) contraptions

  4. Which terms are most suitable for describing the components and operational aspects of an engine or a clockwork system? a) Framework b) Mechanisms c) Apparatus d) Gears

  5. After the storm, significant damage was reported to the heavy construction ________ at the building site, requiring extensive repairs. a) gadgets b) apparatus c) machinery d) implements

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The factory's productive capabilities were greatly enhanced by the introduction of various automated devices and systems.
  2. The farmers need better tools and equipment to automate tasks in the fields.
  3. Modern manufacturing facilities often rely on complex apparatus for production.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. machinery
  2. mechanism
  3. machinery
  4. protocols

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Machinery, c) Equipment
  2. a) Instrumentation, b) Devices
  3. c) Machinery
  4. b) Mechanisms, d) Gears
  5. c) Machinery, d) Implements

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The factory's productive capabilities were greatly enhanced by the introduction of various automated machinery.
  2. The farmers need to mechanize their field tasks with better tools and equipment.
  3. Modern manufacturing facilities often rely on complex equipment for production.

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