English Reference
adjective · noun

electrical

adj. · n.
US /ɪˈɫɛktɹɪkəɫ/ UK /ɪlˈɛktɹɪkəl/ elec·tri·cal

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.related to electricity or using electricity to work.

    adj.pertaining to, produced by, or operated by electricity.

    Simple

    The storm caused an electrical fault that left the whole street without power.

    In context

    The building's electrical system requires a complete overhaul to meet modern safety standards and accommodate the increased power demands of the server room.

    Pitfall
    I need an electric engineer to fix the wiring. I need an electrical engineer to fix the wiring.

    Use 'electrical' for general fields, systems, or professions (electrical engineering), and 'electric' for specific things that produce or run on electricity (electric guitar).

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Informal Technical

    n.a person whose job is to design or fix electrical systems.

    n.a professional practitioner of electrical engineering.

    Simple

    The company is looking to hire a senior electrical for the new project.

    In context

    After years working as a lead electrical on offshore rigs, he transitioned into a consultancy role for renewable energy firms.

    Usage

    Usually functions as a shortened form of 'electrical engineer' in workplace jargon.

Usage electrical power · electrical signals · electrical current


From electric + -al.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated