ENGLISH
REFERENCE

electrical

adj.
A2 Elementary Oxford US //ɪˈɫɛktɹɪkəɫ// UK //ɪlˈɛktɹɪkəl// elec·tri·cal General-service

adj. related to electricity or powered by it. You use this to describe things like wires, power lines, or machines that need a plug or battery to work.

adj. relating to, producing, or operated by electricity. Typically used to describe systems, components, or energy types rather than specific household appliances, which often take 'electric'.


SIMPLE

The storm caused an electrical fault in the building.

CONTEXTUAL

You should always hire a professional to fix any electrical problems in your home to avoid the risk of fire.

COMPLEX

The engineer spent the afternoon inspecting the electrical wiring to ensure the new factory equipment met all safety standards before the final inspection.

Synonyms
Origin

From electric + -al.

Usage

Typically placed before the noun it modifies. Often contrasts with 'electric', which usually refers to specific tools or vehicles.

Pitfall

an electrical guitaran electric guitarUse 'electric' for specific tools or instruments that use electricity; use 'electrical' for general systems or fields of study.

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