Analogue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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analogue

[หˆรฆn.ษ™.lษ’ษก ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

similar thing

An analogue is a person or thing that is comparable to another in significant respects. In various fields such as science and engineering, it refers to a system or device that has a counterpart with similar functions or properties in another domain.

Synonyms

comparable, counterpart, equivalent.

Examples of usage

  • The heart is often considered an analogue to a pump.
  • The analogue clock is an alternative to digital clocks.
  • Historians often find analogues between past events and current situations.
Context #2 | Adjective

similar nature

Relating to or using signals or data that are not digital but rather continuous in nature. Analogue systems or signals represent information in a physical form rather than as numbers.

Synonyms

continuous, non-digital, physical.

Examples of usage

  • Analogue signals are often prone to interference.
  • She prefers analogue photography over digital.
  • The analogue system used in old radios can provide a richer sound.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Analogue technology relies on continuous signals, as opposed to digital technology which uses discrete signals (numbers).
  • Devices like vinyl record players and tape recorders are examples of analogue technology that capture sound waves continuously.
  • The transition from analogue to digital has revolutionized how we store and transmit information, especially in media.

Science

  • In physics, analogue signals can represent physical quantities like sound and light intensity using waveforms.
  • Researchers use analogue computers to simulate complex systems, like weather patterns, due to their ability to model fluid movement continuously.
  • Analogue measurement tools, like rulers and thermometers, provide a visual representation of values which can be convenient in many situations.

Art and Music

  • In music, analogue synthesizers create sounds through voltage variations, which is often described as more organic than digital alternatives.
  • Analogue photography captures images on light-sensitive film, prized for its depth and range compared to digital methods.
  • Artists sometimes use analogue mediums, like paint and clay, to achieve a tactile quality in their work that digital methods canโ€™t replicate.

Culture

  • Many people have a preference for analogue devices, like vinyl records or printed books, due to their nostalgic and tactile qualities.
  • In a world of technology, the trend towards 'analogue moments' encourages people to disconnect from screens and enjoy tangible experiences.
  • Events like analogue film festivals celebrate traditional filmmaking and the art of storytelling without the use of digital effects.

Origin of 'analogue'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'analogue' comes from the Greek word 'analogos,' meaning 'proportional' or 'corresponding.'
  • It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, referring to devices that represent data in a continuous form.
  • In scientific texts, it originally denoted relationships that could be compared in a measurable way.

The word 'analogue' dates back to the early 19th century, originating from the Latin term 'analogus', which means 'proportionate' or 'pertaining to analogy'. It comes from the Greek word 'analogia', meaning 'proportion' or 'relation', formed by 'ana' meaning 'against' or 'back' and 'logos' meaning 'ratio' or 'reason'. Initially used in mathematical contexts, the term evolved to encompass various fields, including linguistics and technology. In particular, the rise of analogue technology, such as radios and clocks, in the mid-20th century solidified its usage. In contemporary discussions about technology, 'analogue' is often contrasted with 'digital', marking a significant transition in how we perceive and interact with devices and information.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,071, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.