Gears: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the set of toothed wheels that work together to control movement in machines or vehicles.

• The car's gears need to be shifted smoothly to avoid damage.
• The clockwork mechanism is driven by a complex arrangement of gears.

Refers to individual teeth on a gear or smaller components within a larger machinery system. Often used metaphorically to describe a person who is just a small part of a large organization.

• Each cog in the machine must align perfectly for it to function correctly.
• He felt like just a small cog in the corporate machine.

Describes the toothed wheels on which chains run, commonly used in bicycles or other chain-driven machinery.

• The bicycle's chain slipped off the sprocket during the race.
• Careful maintenance of the sprockets can extend the life of the bike.

General term for circular components that rotate and are used in a wide range of applications, from vehicles to machinery. Often used metaphorically to describe progress or movement.

• The wheels on the bus go round and round.
• He played a key role in keeping the wheels of the project turning.

Used when specifically talking about the mechanics of machines, particularly those with rotating parts that transfer motion and force.

• The bicycle's gears are broken and need to be fixed
• She shifted the gears smoothly while driving

General term for individual pieces that come together to form a larger system or product, commonly used in technology, machinery, and electronics.

• All the components of the computer are laid out on the table
• The engineer carefully checked each component of the circuit

Refers to basic, essential parts of anything abstract or concrete, often used in scientific, technical, and design contexts.

• Water is composed of the elements hydrogen and oxygen
• The key elements of a good presentation include clarity, conciseness, and engagement

General term for pieces of a whole, can be used in various contexts from machinery to abstract concepts, tends to be more casual and versatile.

• We need to order replacement parts for the broken machine
• The play is divided into three parts

Refers to mechanical parts within a machine or can metaphorically describe preparation or adjustment for an activity.

• The car's gears need to be oiled regularly
• The school gears up for the annual science fair

Used when getting ready for an event, task, or action.

• They prepare for the exam weeks in advance
• The chefs prepare meals for the guests

Commonly used when making small changes to something to make it better suited or more accurate.

• He had to adjust his watch
• She adjusted the brightness of her computer screen

Used when something or someone changes to fit a new situation or environment.

• Animals adapt to their surroundings
• She had to adapt to the new work schedule