Cool MateComputers vs Machines vs Systems
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Computers
Top 1,000 (very common)
Machines
Top 2,000 (common)
Systems
Top 1,000 (very common)
| Computers | Machines | Systems | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //kəmˈpjuːtəz//🇺🇸 //kəmˈpjutɚz// | 🇬🇧 //məˈʃiːnz//🇺🇸 //məˈʃinz// | 🇬🇧 //ˈsɪstəmz//🇺🇸 //ˈsɪstəmz// |
| Meaning | Machines that process information and perform tasks. | Devices that use power to perform work. | A group of connected things working together. |
| Example | Many businesses rely on computers for daily operations. | The factory has many different **machines** for assembling products. | The education systems in different countries vary widely. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| Collocations | powerful computers, personal computers, mobile computers, computer systems, desktop computers | heavy machines, industrial machines, printing machines, electronic machines, farming machines | economic systems, biological systems, computer systems, social systems, support systems |
| Antonyms | humans, nature | humans, organic, nature | disorganization, chaos |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'computer' (singular) with 'computers' (plural)., Using 'computer' to refer to both hardware and software aspects., Assuming 'computers' only refer to desktop models. | 'Machinery' is often incorrectly used as a synonym for 'machines.', Confusing 'machine' as a countable noun and forgetting the plural form., Using 'machines' when referring to non-mechanical devices. | Confused with 'systematic' or 'systematic approach'., Using 'system' as a plural instead of 'systems'., Mixing up 'system' with 'method' or 'process'. |
| Usage notes | Use 'computers' in both formal and informal settings. It's appropriate in discussions about technology, work, and education but avoid overly technical jargon unless the audience is familiar. | Use 'machines' in contexts related to technology, manufacturing, or tasks performed using devices. Avoid using in very casual speech unless discussing technology. | Use 'systems' when referring to organized structures, like computer systems or ecological systems. It's generally neutral but can be formal in academic contexts. |
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Frequently asked questions: Computers vs Machines vs Systems
What's the difference between Computers, Machines, and Systems?
Computers: Machines that process information and perform tasks. Machines: Devices that use power to perform work. Systems: A group of connected things working together.
Can you show an example of each?
Computers: Many businesses rely on computers for daily operations. Machines: The factory has many different **machines** for assembling products. Systems: The education systems in different countries vary widely.
Can I use Computers, Machines, and Systems interchangeably?
Not always. Computers, Machines, and Systems are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.