B1 2K

Manual

UK //ˈmænjʊəl// US //ˈmænjʊəl// Pronunciation

Definition

A book or document that provides instructions or guidelines.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A book that gives instructions.

Examples

• Please refer to the user manual for setup instructions.
• He prefers to work with a manual rather than an automated system.
• The service manual contains all the troubleshooting steps.
• She printed out the manual for easier reading.
• The car's manual is located in the glove compartment.

Usage notes

Use 'manual' to describe a guide or instructions. It's appropriate in technical contexts but not casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

adjective/noun

Memory hint

Think of 'man' with a pen writing a guide.

Collocations

• user manual
• service manual
• instruction manual
• owner's manual
• repair manual

Synonyms

• handbook
• guide
• instructions
• reference
• compendium

Antonyms

• automatic
• digital

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'manual' (guide) with 'manually' (by hand)
• Using 'manual' as a verb
• Saying 'the manual' without context.