The differences between Electronics, Electronic, Electricity, Electric, and Electrical

Electronic’s collocations

Meaning

Example

electronic games/ gadgets/ goods

Digital games, devices, or products that operate using electronic technology, often involving computers or other electronic systems.

He spends his free time playing electronic games. 

electronic components

Basic elements or parts used to create electronic devices, such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors.

The engineer carefully selected the electronic components for the new device.

electronic device/ equipment/ product

Any item designed to perform specific functions using electronic circuits, including smartphones, computers, and household appliances.

She always carries an electronic device to stay connected on the go.

electronic catalog/ database

An online collection of records or items organized for easy access and searchability, typically used for inventory or information management.

The library's electronic catalog makes it easy to find books online. 

electronic data/ records

Information stored in a digital format that can be processed by computers, often used for reporting, analysis, or record-keeping.

The company uses electronic data to analyze customer behavior. 

electronic access/ billing

Methods that allow users to enter and interact with systems or services online, including processes for managing payments and invoices via digital means.

Employees are provided with electronic access to secure areas. 

electronic media/ publishing

Platforms and technologies for distributing content, such as articles, videos, and music, through digital channels instead of traditional print methods.

Electronic media has transformed the way we consume news and entertainment. 

electronic communication

The exchange of information or messages using electronic means, such as email, text messaging, or instant messaging.

Email is a common form of electronic communication in the workplace. 

electronic payment/ cash system

Technologies that enable financial transactions to be conducted digitally or electronically, facilitating cashless payments through methods like credit cards, online banking, or mobile wallets.

Many people prefer using an electronic payment system for online purchases. 

Collocation with Electricity

Meaning

Example

amount of electricity

The quantity of electrical energy measured in units such as watts, kilowatts, or joules.

The amount of electricity used in the factory has increased this year.

atmospheric electricity

The electrical phenomena that occur in the atmosphere, including lightning and thunder, as well as electric fields and charges present in the atmosphere.

Atmospheric electricity can be observed during thunderstorms.

availability of electricity

The degree to which electrical power is accessible for consumption or use by individuals, industries, or communities.

The availability of electricity in rural areas has improved. 

conductor of electricity

A material that allows electric charge to flow easily, typically metals like copper and aluminum, which have free-moving electrons.

Copper is a good conductor of electricity.

electricity bill

The statement of charges for electrical consumption issued by a utility company, detailing the amount of electricity used and the total cost for a specific billing period.

Our electricity bill was very high last month. 

electricity consumption

The amount of electrical energy used by households, businesses, or industries over a certain period, often expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

Reducing electricity consumption is important for the environment. 

electricity customer

An individual or entity that purchases electrical energy from a utility provider for personal or business use.

The company offers discounts to loyal electricity customers. 

electricity generation

The process of producing electrical power from various energy sources such as fossil fuels, nuclear, hydro, wind, or solar energy.

Electricity generation from renewable sources is increasing. 

electricity grid

The interconnected system of power lines, substations, and transformers that delivers electricity from producers to consumers.

The electricity grid is crucial for distributing power across the country.

electricity provider

A company or entity that generates, distributes, or sells electrical power to customers.

Our electricity provider offers several plans to choose from. 

electricity rate

The charge or price per unit of electricity consumed, often expressed in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

The government announced a decrease in the electricity rate.

electricity sector

The part of the economy that deals with the generation, distribution, and sale of electrical power.

The electricity sector is undergoing major reforms.

electricity usage

The total amount of electrical energy consumed by an individual or organization over a specific time period.

Our household electricity usage has decreased since we installed solar panels.

excess electricity

The surplus electrical energy generated beyond what is consumed, which can be stored or fed back into the electricity grid.

The solar panels generate excess electricity that is sold back to the grid. 

Words/phrases commonly used with Electric

Meaning

Example

electric chair

An apparatus used for execution by electrocution, where a person is seated in a specially designed chair and high-voltage electricity is applied to cause death.

The electric chair was historically used as a method of execution. 

electric fence

A barrier that uses electric shock to deter animals or intruders from crossing a boundary, typically consisting of a wire or tape charged with electricity.

The farmer installed an electric fence to keep the livestock safe. 

electric blue

A vivid shade of blue that resembles the color of electricity; often associated with a bright, intense hue.

She wore a dress in electric blue for the party.

electric eel

A species of knifefish found in the Amazon and Orinoco river basins, known for its ability to generate electric shocks for hunting and self-defense.

The electric eel can produce a powerful electric shock to stun its prey. 

electric field

A physical field produced by electrically charged particles, affecting the motion of other charged particles within the vicinity.

The electric field around a charged object can affect nearby objects.

electric motor

A machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, commonly used in various devices and appliances to produce motion.

The electric motor in the car runs quietly. 

electric power

The rate at which electrical energy is transferred by an electric circuit, usually measured in watts (W).

Electric power is essential for modern technology and infrastructure. 

electric razor

An electric grooming device used for shaving facial hair, typically featuring rotating or oscillating blades that cut hair.

He prefers using an electric razor for a quick and easy shave. 

electric shock

A physical injury caused by the passage of electric current through the body, which can result in various health effects, ranging from mild discomfort to fatal injuries.

Be careful when handling electrical appliances to avoid an electric shock. 

Diesel-electric

A type of engine or power system that combines a diesel engine with electrical components, often used in locomotives and some marine vessels for propulsion.

The diesel-electric train offers both power and efficiency. 

electric blanket

A blanket that contains integrated electrical heating wires, providing warmth through electric power, typically used for comfort during cold weather.

The electric blanket kept us warm during the cold winter nights.

electric charge

A property of matter responsible for electrical phenomena, which can be positive or negative and determines how particles interact through electromagnetic forces.

The electric charge of the battery powers the device.

electric circuit

A closed path through which electric current can flow, consisting of various components such as resistors, capacitors, and power sources.

The electrician repaired the broken electric circuit in the house. 

electric current

The flow of electric charge in a circuit, typically measured in amperes (A), representing the movement of electrons through a conductor.

The electric current flows through the wires to power the light bulbs. 

electric heater

A device that converts electrical energy into heat to provide warmth in indoor spaces, commonly used for heating rooms or areas during cold weather.

We use an electric heater to warm up the room during winter. 

Electrical’s collocations

Meaning

Example

electrical storm

A severe weather event characterized by the presence of thunder and lightning, often accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds.

The electrical storm caused power outages across the city.

electrical engineer

A professional who specializes in the design, development, and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment, including power generation, transmission, and electronic devices.

She works as an electrical engineer at a technology company. 

electrical network

A system of interconnected electrical components, including power lines, substations, and transformers, that enables the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.

The electrical network distributes power to homes and businesses. 

electrical outlet

A socket or receptacle installed in a wall or surface that provides electrical power for connecting appliances or devices.

Make sure to plug the charger into a working electrical outlet. 

electrical conductor

A material that allows electric charge to flow easily through it, typically metals such as copper and aluminum, which have free-moving electrons.

Gold is an excellent electrical conductor.

electrical engineering

A branch of engineering that deals with the study, design, and application of electrical systems and equipment, including power generation, electronics, and telecommunications.

He decided to major in electrical engineering at university. 

electrical impedance

A measure of the opposition that a circuit presents to the flow of alternating current (AC), combining both resistance and reactance.

Electrical impedance is a crucial factor in designing circuits. 

electrical insulator

A material that does not conduct electricity well and is used to prevent the flow of electric current, typically found in plastics, rubber, and glass.

Rubber is commonly used as an electrical insulator. 

electrical resistance

A measure of the opposition to the flow of electric current in a conductor, usually measured in ohms (Ω); higher resistance means less current flow for a given voltage.

The electrical resistance of a material determines how much it resists the flow of electric current. 

Electronics’ collocations

Meaning

Example

advanced electronics

A branch of electronics that utilizes cutting-edge technologies and techniques to create sophisticated and high-performance electronic devices and systems.

The research lab focuses on developing advanced electronics for aerospace applications.

electronics engineer

A professional who specializes in designing, developing, and testing electronic circuits and systems, working in various industries, including telecommunications, robotics, and consumer electronics.

As an electronics engineer, she designs circuits for various devices. 

electronics firm

A business or company that focuses on the design, manufacture, or sales of electronic products and services.

The electronics firm has been at the forefront of innovation in consumer gadgets. 

electronics industry

The sector of the economy dedicated to the production, distribution, and marketing of electronic devices, components, and systems, encompassing a wide range of products from consumer electronics to industrial machinery.

The electronics industry is rapidly evolving with new technological advancements.

electronics manufacturer

A company or organization that produces electronic components, devices, or systems for commercial sale or use.

The electronics manufacturer announced a new line of high-definition televisions.

electronics store

A retail establishment that sells electronic devices, components, and accessories, such as computers, televisions, audio equipment, and mobile phones.

I went to the electronics store to buy a new laptop. 

electronics technician

A skilled worker who is trained to assemble, test, repair, and maintain electronic equipment and systems, often working in manufacturing, service, or repair industries.

The electronics technician repaired the faulty circuit board. 

modern electronics

Current technologies and practices in the field of electronics, often characterized by advancements such as miniaturization, digitalization, and integration of smart technologies.

Modern electronics have transformed how we communicate and entertain ourselves.

molecular electronics

A subfield of electronics that studies and utilizes individual molecules or molecular-scale structures to create electronic components, aiming for miniaturization and increased performance at the nanoscale.

Researchers in molecular electronics are exploring how molecules can be used in electronic devices.

sophisticated electronics

Advanced electronic systems and devices that incorporate complex technologies and functions, often designed to perform intricate tasks or provide enhanced capabilities.

The new smartphone features sophisticated electronics that enhance its performance. 

Definition

Example

Electrical

Refer to machinery, equipment, or systems that use or produce electricity (often used in technical or professional contexts)

John is waiting for a shipment of electrical equipment. 

Electric 

• Refer to specific types of machinery or equipment that use electricity. 

• Refer to a person or organization that combines to produce electrical current or related goods.

John recommends I get an electric toothbrush.

Electricity

Refer to electrical power - a form of energy. 

John has turned off the electricity supply before leaving the class. 

Electronic

• A device that has transistors or silicon chips to control and alter the flow of electricity running through it.

• Describes a process or activity that uses electronic devices.

John has turned off the fan, TV and other electronic devices before going out. 

Electronics

The study/field that researches electricity. 

John has a degree in electronics.

1. electric

2. electronics

3. electric

4. Electricity

5. electrical

6. electronic

7. electric

8. electrical

9. Electronics

10. electric