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Automatically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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automatically

[ˌɔː.təˈmæt.ɪ.kli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a mechanical manner

In a way that is controlled or done without conscious thought or attention.

Synonyms

instinctively, mechanically, spontaneously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
automatically

Used when something happens by a machine or system without human input, or when someone does something without conscious thought, often due to habit.

  • The doors opened automatically as we approached.
  • He reached for his phone automatically when it rang.
mechanically

Used when someone does something in a routine manner, often without thinking or with little interest, almost as if they were a machine.

  • He nodded mechanically, not really listening.
  • The workers performed their tasks mechanically, day after day.
spontaneously

Used when something happens suddenly and without planning, often driven by inner impulse or natural inclination.

  • They decided to go on a trip spontaneously.
  • She spontaneously burst into song.
instinctively

Used when someone does something based on a natural intuition or gut feeling, often without prior thought or reasoning.

  • She instinctively knew he was lying.
  • Birds instinctively fly south for the winter.

Examples of usage

  • The doors opened automatically as we approached.
  • The system is set to adjust automatically.
Context #2 | Adverb

without human intervention

In a way that is done by a machine or system without the need for human involvement.

Synonyms

autonomously, independently, self-regulating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
automatically

Used when referring to something that operates on its own, especially machines or systems, without needing human intervention.

  • The coffee machine turns off automatically after 30 minutes.
  • The doors open automatically when someone approaches.
independently

Used to describe actions or tasks performed without the need for help, support, or reliance on others, often applied to people, groups, or processes.

  • She completed the project independently, without any assistance.
  • The research team worked independently from the main organization.
autonomously

Used to describe something, usually a system or vehicle, that can operate on its own without any external control, often implying a high level of sophistication and technology.

  • The autonomous car navigated through the city streets without any help from a driver.
  • Drones that can fly autonomously are used for various missions.
self-regulating

Refers to a system or mechanism that can adjust and control itself according to predefined rules or standards, often used in technical, biological, or ecological contexts.

  • The self-regulating thermostat keeps the room at a constant temperature.
  • Natural ecosystems are often self-regulating, maintaining a balance among species.

Examples of usage

  • The software updates automatically every night.
  • The lights turn on and off automatically.
Context #3 | Adverb

in a natural or inevitable manner

In a way that happens as a natural consequence or result.

Synonyms

inevitably, naturally, unavoidably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
automatically

Used when something happens by itself without human intervention, often mechanically or electronically.

  • The coffee machine shuts off automatically after brewing
  • The system will automatically update every hour
inevitably

Suggests that something is certain to happen and cannot be avoided, often with a slightly negative or fatalistic connotation.

  • Inevitably, the old machinery broke down
  • Given the circumstances, conflict was inevitable
naturally

Used to describe something that happens by nature, instinct, or without effort, and often emphasizes that it is common or to be expected.

  • Naturally, children are curious about their surroundings
  • She naturally excels in mathematics
unavoidably

Describes something that cannot be avoided, often used in formal or serious contexts, with a neccessarily negative implication.

  • He was unavoidably delayed by the traffic
  • The meeting was unavoidably postponed due to an emergency

Examples of usage

  • The price of goods will rise automatically with inflation.
  • He automatically assumed he was at fault.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Many modern devices, like smart home systems, perform functions automatically, increasing convenience in daily life.
  • Automation technology is widely used in manufacturing, allowing machines to operate without constant human control.
  • Automatically programmed tasks can save time, like automatic bill payments that ensure bills are paid on time without remembering.

Psychology

  • In behavioral psychology, certain habits become automatic through repetition, making them effortless over time.
  • Cognitive processes can work automatically; for instance, when you learn to ride a bike, you do it without thinking after practice.
  • Automatic thoughts can occur in response to triggers, influencing emotions and behaviors without conscious awareness.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often have automatic weapons, which can symbolize the loss of control in chaotic situations.
  • Songs like 'Automatic' by Miranda Lambert explore themes of living without thinking too much, embracing spontaneity.
  • The use of automatic doors in films often signifies advanced technology and the easing of physical barriers.

Science

  • In biology, certain reflex actions, like pulling your hand away from something hot, occur automatically without thought.
  • Automatic processes in the human body, like breathing, happen without needing to consciously think about them.
  • In ecology, some ecosystems develop automatically, creating a balance without direct human intervention.

Origin of 'automatically'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'automatos,' meaning 'self-acting' or 'self-moving.'
  • It appeared in the English language in the 19th century, originally linked to machinery and processes.
  • The prefix 'auto-' means 'self,' indicating that the action occurs independently.

The word 'automatically' originated in the late 19th century from the word 'automatic,' which comes from the Greek word 'automatos' meaning 'self-moving.' The concept of automation and mechanization led to the development of the adverb 'automatically' to describe actions done without human intervention. Over time, it has become a common term in technology, engineering, and everyday language to describe processes that occur spontaneously or without conscious effort.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,578, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.