English Reference

Word

ATM

Phoneticsatm

/ˈeɪˌtiˈɛm/

Countable noun

Definition

n. Stands for Automated Teller Machine. A machine outside a bank or in a shop where you can get cash using a plastic card. You use it to check your balance or take out money at any time.

n. Abbreviation for Automated Teller Machine. An electronic telecommunications device that enables customers of financial institutions to perform financial transactions, such as cash withdrawals, without the need for a human cashier.

Examples

“I need to find an ATM to get some cash for lunch.”

“The bank charges a small fee if you use an ATM that belongs to a different company.”

“While digital payments are increasingly dominant, the local economy still relies heavily on cash, making the availability of a functional ATM a necessity for small business owners.”

Examples

simple

“I need to find an ATM to get some cash for lunch.”

contextual

“The bank charges a small fee if you use an ATM that belongs to a different company.”

complex

“While digital payments are increasingly dominant, the local economy still relies heavily on cash, making the availability of a functional ATM a necessity for small business owners.”

Usage

Often used with the definite article ('the ATM') or as a modifier in compound nouns like 'ATM card' or 'ATM fees'.

Pitfall

I need to go to the ATM machine

I need to go to the ATM

ATM stands for Automated Teller Machine, so adding 'machine' after the acronym is redundant.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Frequent
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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English Reference