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Manual Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manual

[หˆmanjสŠษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

use

A book or a document that gives you practical information about a particular subject or tells you how to do something.

Synonyms

guide, handbook, instruction manual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
manual

Commonly refers to an instructional book for complex tasks or equipments. It emphasizes detailed instructions and is often technical.

  • The technician had to refer to the equipment manual to fix the issue
handbook

A concise reference book that gives essential principles and practical instructions for specific fields or subjects, often used in academic or professional settings.

  • The employee handbook explains the company's policies and procedures
guide

A document or tool that provides general directions or tips, often used for travel, self-help, or navigating complex topics.

  • The tourist guide helped us find the best restaurants in the city
instruction manual

A booklet or manual containing detailed technical instructions on how to assemble, operate, or troubleshoot a product. Used specifically for detailed, step-by-step instructions.

  • Before setting up the new printer, it's important to read the instruction manual carefully

Examples of usage

  • Make sure you read the manual before assembling the furniture.
  • The manual provided step-by-step instructions on how to operate the machine.
Context #2 | Adjective

use

Done with the hands.

Synonyms

hand-operated, non-automatic, physical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
manual

Used to describe tasks or operations that are performed by hand or require physical effort without the aid of automation or machinery.

  • Manual labor, manual transmission, manual instruction
hand-operated

Used to specify devices or tools that need human effort to function, emphasizing that no motor or automated mechanism is involved.

  • Hand-operated drill, hand-operated winch, hand-operated pump
non-automatic

Emphasizes the lack of automation in a process or device. Typically used to distinguish between automatic and non-automatic versions of something.

  • Non-automatic coffee maker, non-automatic washing machine, non-automatic gate
physical

Describes activities or jobs that require bodily strength and involve moving or handling objects. Often highlights the physical effort involved.

  • Physical labor, physical work, physical exercise

Examples of usage

  • The process required manual labor.
  • She preferred manual work over office tasks.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In the era of the internet, digital manuals are becoming more popular, allowing users to access instructions online.
  • Many software applications come with a manual that helps users understand features and troubleshoot problems.

Education

  • Teaching methods often emphasize manual skills, like crafting or drawing, which involve hands-on activities.
  • In vocational training, manuals are essential for providing step-by-step guidance for specific trades.

Cultural References

  • Various games come with manuals, which players often cherish for their illustrations and fun narratives.
  • In the context of DIY culture, manuals are celebrated for empowering individuals to fix things around the home.

History

  • Historically, manuals were crucial during the Industrial Revolution, teaching workers how to operate complex machinery.
  • In the 19th century, the popularity of home improvement manuals surged, influencing modern home ownership.

Origin of 'manual'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'manuฤlis', meaning 'of the hand', because it refers to activities done by hand.
  • In the 14th century, the term began to be used in English to describe tasks that required manual skills.

The word 'manual' originated from the Latin word 'manualis', which means 'of or belonging to the hand'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to things operated or done by hand. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings, from instruction books to physical labor.

See also: everyman, man, manacle, manage, mania, manipulate, mankind, manliness, manly, manner, manor, mantra, manure.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,443, 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.