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Controller Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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controller

[kənˈtrəʊlə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

electronic devices

A person or thing that directs or regulates something, especially a device that controls the operation of a machine, vehicle, or system.

Synonyms

manager, regulator, supervisor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
controller

This term is frequently used in a financial or administrative context to describe a person responsible for accounting and financial tasks within a company.

  • The controller is preparing the quarterly financial report.
  • Our new controller has implemented some effective cost-saving measures.
regulator

Often used in legal, governmental, or technical settings to describe an entity or person who enforces rules, standards, or laws.

  • The regulators will conduct an inspection next week.
  • Environmental regulators are introducing stricter emissions standards.
manager

Used broadly in workplaces for someone who oversees teams, projects, or departments, making strategic decisions and ensuring goals are met.

  • I have a meeting with the project manager today.
  • Managers play a crucial role in the success of a company.
supervisor

This word is used in the context of workplaces to describe someone who oversees or manages a team or certain tasks to ensure everything runs smoothly.

  • The supervisor will review our work at the end of the day.
  • If you have any issues, please report them to your supervisor.

Examples of usage

  • The flight controller directed the airplane to the correct runway.
  • The TV remote control allows you to change channels and adjust the volume.
Context #2 | Noun

computing

A device or piece of software that manages the input and output of data between a computer and other devices.

Synonyms

interface, manager, supervisor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
controller

In a business setting, this term refers to a person responsible for financial reporting and accounting within an organization.

  • The financial controller prepared the annual budget report.
  • As a controller, she ensures that all accounting records are accurate.
interface

Used primarily in technology and computing, this term describes a point of interaction between two systems, devices, or a user and a device.

  • The user interface of the software is very intuitive.
  • An API is an interface that allows different software components to communicate.
manager

This term is widely used in business and organizational settings to describe a person who is in charge of overseeing operations and making decisions.

  • The project manager is responsible for meeting deadlines.
  • She works as an HR manager at a large corporation.
supervisor

This term is typically used in workplaces to describe someone who oversees the work of others and ensures that tasks are completed correctly.

  • The warehouse supervisor ensures that all inventory is properly stored.
  • In her role as a supervisor, she evaluates employee performance.

Examples of usage

  • The game controller allows you to interact with the virtual world using buttons and joysticks.
  • The printer controller is responsible for managing print jobs and sending them to the printer.
Context #3 | Noun

business

A person or organization that has the authority to direct, manage, or oversee the activities of others.

Synonyms

manager, overseer, supervisor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
controller

Used to refer to someone who monitors and regulates processes or systems, often in a business or administrative context.

  • The financial controller is responsible for overseeing the company's accounting operations
  • In tech companies, a controller can also refer to a device or software that manages hardware systems
supervisor

Used in various employment settings, referring to someone who oversees the work of others, ensuring tasks are completed correctly and efficiently.

  • The supervisor conducted performance reviews for each team member
  • In a manufacturing plant, supervisors make sure that safety protocols are followed
manager

Refers to a person who is in charge of a part of a company or project, focused on organizing, planning, and coordinating tasks and teams.

  • The project manager ensures all team members are meeting their deadlines
  • A restaurant manager handles staffing, inventory, and customer service
overseer

Often used in historical or agricultural settings, referring to someone who supervises workers, sometimes with a negative connotation related to forced labor.

  • In historical contexts, an overseer might have supervised workers on a plantation
  • Today, the term is less common but might be used metaphorically in literature

Examples of usage

  • The project controller is responsible for monitoring the budget and progress of the project.
  • The quality controller ensures that products meet the required standards before being shipped.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In gaming, controllers are devices that allow players to interact with video games, providing input through buttons and joysticks.
  • The development of wireless controllers revolutionized gaming, allowing players to move freely without being tethered to a console.
  • Modern devices often feature touch-sensitive controllers that adapt to user input for a more immersive experience.

Business

  • In a corporate environment, a controller is often responsible for financial reporting and keeping the company's budget in check.
  • They play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, safeguarding the company's assets.
  • Controllers often collaborate with other departments to analyze financial risks and develop strategies for future growth.

Psychology

  • Having a sense of control (like that of a controller) can positively affect mental well-being, leading to reduced anxiety.
  • Research shows that feeling in control enhances motivation and performance, encouraging greater effort in tasks.
  • However, too much control can lead to stress and burnout, illustrating the need for balance.

Literature

  • In storytelling, the role of a 'controller' can be likened to the omniscient narrator who guides readers through the narrative.
  • Characters in novels often struggle with their lack of control over their destinies, highlighting themes of free will.
  • The concept of control is a common motif in dystopian literature, exploring the societal implications of power dynamics.

Origin of 'controller'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'controller' comes from the Latin 'contrarotulare', meaning to check against a roll or list.
  • It first appeared in English in the 14th century, originally referring to someone who checks accounts.
  • The prefix 'con-' means 'together' or 'with', while 'trollare' refers to rolling, reflecting a role that oversees and manages.

The word 'controller' originated from Middle English 'countrollen' which came from Old French 'contreroller', a combination of 'contre' (against) and 'roller' (roll). Initially used in the context of checking or regulating accounts, the term evolved to encompass various forms of regulation and direction, especially in the fields of technology, business, and management.

See also: control, controlability, controllability, controllable, controlled, controlledly, controllers, controlling, controls, incontrollable, uncontrollability, uncontrollable, uncontrollably, uncontrolled.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,431 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.