Automobile Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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automobile
[ˈɔːtəməbiːl ]
Definitions
mode of transportation
A motor vehicle with four wheels, designed to carry a small number of passengers.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| automobile |
Typically used in formal or technical contexts such as legal documents, industry reports, or academic writing.
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| car |
The most commonly used term in day-to-day conversation, referring to personal vehicles in general.
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| vehicle |
Used in both technical and everyday contexts, but it is broader as it can refer to various types of transportation, not just cars.
|
| auto |
Commonly used in everyday informal speech and writing. It's a shorter and more casual alternative to 'automobile'.
|
Examples of usage
- Let's take the automobile to go to the supermarket.
- The automobile industry has been evolving rapidly in recent years.
general term for a car
A general term used to refer to any type of motor vehicle used for transportation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| automobile |
Used in formal or technical contexts, such as industry-related discussions or legal documents.
|
| car |
The most commonly used term in everyday language. This word can fit almost any situation and is easily understood by everyone.
|
| vehicle |
Broader term that refers to any mode of transportation, but often used in formal contexts related to regulations, logistics, or technical descriptions.
|
| auto |
Informal and often used as an abbreviation, commonly heard in everyday conversation or informal writing.
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Examples of usage
- He owns a luxurious automobile.
- The automobile was parked in front of the house.
antique vehicle
A historical or old-fashioned motor vehicle, often prized for its design or rarity.
Synonyms
classic car, vintage car.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| automobile |
Use 'automobile' in formal contexts, technical discussions, or official documents. It's a general term for motor vehicles.
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| vintage car |
Refers to very old cars, often from the early 20th century, and there's a sense of nostalgia or historical admiration.
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| classic car |
Used to describe old cars that are typically well-maintained and admired for their historical importance and aesthetic value.
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Examples of usage
- The automobile collection includes some rare antique cars.
- They participated in the antique automobile exhibition.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'automobile' comes from the Greek word 'auto' meaning self and the Latin word 'mobilis' meaning movable.
- The first working automobile was created by Karl Benz in 1885, which changed how people travel forever.
- Henry Ford revolutionized production by introducing assembly lines in the early 20th century, making cars more affordable.
Pop Culture
- Cars have become symbols of freedom and individuality, often featured in movies and songs like 'Fast and Furious' and 'Shut Up and Drive'.
- The automobile industry has inspired countless designer brands and has even created cultural icons like the VW Beetle and the Ford Mustang.
- Many songs celebrate cars, including classics like 'Little Deuce Coupe' by The Beach Boys that talk about the joy of driving.
Science and Technology
- Modern automobiles use complex technology such as fuel injection and hybrid systems to improve efficiency and reduce pollution.
- Electric vehicles are gaining popularity and use batteries instead of gasoline to power an electric motor.
- Autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, use sensors and AI to navigate without human input, representing the future of transportation.
Environmental Impact
- Automobiles significantly contribute to air pollution, prompting moves towards cleaner technologies and electric cars.
- Traffic congestion is a growing problem in urban areas, leading some cities to promote public transportation and bike lanes.
- Innovations like car-sharing services aim to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, decreasing environmental stress.
Economics
- The automobile industry is a major part of the global economy, employing millions and contributing significantly to GDP in many countries.
- Changes in fuel prices can greatly affect the automobile market, impacting everything from car sales to manufacturing costs.
- Emerging markets are seeing rapid growth in car ownership as more people achieve higher incomes, leading to expanded road infrastructure.
Origin of 'automobile'
The word 'automobile' originates from the Greek words 'auto' meaning 'self' and 'mobilis' meaning 'movable'. It was first used in the late 19th century to describe a self-propelled vehicle. The automobile industry has since transformed transportation and become an integral part of modern society.