Cool MateEquipment vs Machines
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Equipment
Top 1,000 (very common)A2noun
Machines
Top 2,000 (common)
Most common: Equipment
| Equipment | Machines | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪˈkwɪpmənt/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪˈkwɪpmənt/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //məˈʃiːnz//🇺🇸 //məˈʃinz// |
| Meaning | The tools or gear needed for a specific purpose. | Devices that use power to perform work. |
| Example | The gym has new equipment for weight training. | The factory has many different **machines** for assembling products. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | A2 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | the latest, modern, state-of-the-art, item, piece, buy, purchase, sell, consist of something, work, malfunction, maker, manufacturer, supplier, equipment for, the proper equipment, the right equipment | heavy machines, industrial machines, printing machines, electronic machines, farming machines |
| Antonyms | disequipment, inactivity | humans, organic, nature |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'equipment' with 'equipments' as it is always uncountable., Using 'equip' incorrectly; it requires an object., Mispronouncing the word, especially the second syllable. | '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. |
| Usage notes | Use 'equipment' to refer to tools in various contexts, like sports, work, or technology. It is neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal situations. | Use 'machines' in contexts related to technology, manufacturing, or tasks performed using devices. Avoid using in very casual speech unless discussing technology. |
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Frequently asked questions: Equipment vs Machines
What's the difference between Equipment and Machines?
Equipment: The tools or gear needed for a specific purpose. Machines: Devices that use power to perform work.
Which is more common: Equipment and Machines?
Equipment is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Equipment: The gym has new equipment for weight training. Machines: The factory has many different **machines** for assembling products.
Can I use Equipment and Machines interchangeably?
Not always. Equipment and Machines 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.