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Regulator: meaning, definitions and examples

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regulator

 

[ˈrɛɡjʊleɪtə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mechanical device

A regulator is a device or mechanism that controls or maintains a desired state or condition of a system.

Synonyms

adjuster, controller, governor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
regulator

Typically used in the context of devices or authorities that control or maintain a particular function within set limits.

  • The thermostat acts as a regulator for the heating system.
  • The financial regulator introduced new policies to stabilize the market.
controller

Generally describes a person or device that directs or manages the operation of systems, machines, or organizations. Frequently used in business and technology domains.

  • The game console's controller was very user-friendly.
  • The financial controller prepares annual budgets for the company.
governor

Primarily used to refer to a person who is in charge of governing an area, institution, or state. It can also describe a device that regulates machinery speed. Common in both political and mechanical contexts.

  • The governor of the state announced new educational reforms.
  • The steam engine's governor helps maintain consistent speed.
adjuster

Often used to describe a person or device that makes modifications or corrections to improve functionality. Commonly used in insurance and technical settings.

  • The insurance adjuster evaluated the damage to the car.
  • The seat adjuster helps you find a comfortable driving position.

Examples of usage

  • The thermostat in the car acts as a regulator for the engine temperature.
  • The voltage regulator ensures a constant voltage output from the power supply.
Context #2 | Noun

government official

A regulator is an official responsible for supervising or controlling a particular industry or activity.

Synonyms

inspector, overseer, supervisor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
regulator

Used in the context of official rules and regulations, often in industries such as finance, healthcare, and utilities.

  • The financial regulator ensures that banks follow the law
  • The environmental regulator imposed new pollution control measures
supervisor

Used in work or educational settings where a person has a role of supervising employees or students, ensuring tasks and responsibilities are completed.

  • My supervisor gave me feedback on my recent project
  • The warehouse supervisor organized the inventory
inspector

Commonly used in contexts where someone examines or investigates something closely, like in safety inspections or quality control.

  • The safety inspector found several violations at the construction site
  • A health inspector visited the restaurant last week
overseer

Typically used in historical or organizational contexts, where someone oversees workers, often with a sense of authority. Can have a negative connotation when talking about labor contexts.

  • The overseer managed the workers on the plantation
  • The project overseer made sure that all tasks were completed on time

Examples of usage

  • The financial regulator monitors the banking sector for compliance with regulations.
  • The food safety regulator ensures that food products meet safety standards.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'regulare', which means 'to rule or control'.
  • It first appeared in English in the 17th century, originally referring to rules or principles.
  • Over time, 'regulator' expanded to describe devices and people that manage various systems.

Science and Technology

  • In engineering, it often refers to devices that control pressure or flow, such as in gas pipelines.
  • A crucial part of electrical circuits, voltage regulators maintain constant voltage levels for sensitive devices.
  • Temperature regulators, found in thermoregulation systems, ensure environments remain at desired temperatures.

Finance

  • Financial regulators help maintain trust in markets, ensuring that companies follow laws and protect consumers.
  • The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is an example of a financial regulator in the USA, overseeing stock markets.
  • Regulatory compliance in businesses means they must follow specific laws to operate legally and ethically.

Health and Safety

  • In healthcare, body regulators (like hormones) keep physiological processes stable, like blood sugar levels.
  • Environmental regulators enforce laws to protect air and water quality for public health.
  • Product regulators ensure that goods, like food and drugs, meet safety standards for consumer protection.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often act as regulators by enforcing rules, like the police in action films.
  • Video games feature regulators as characters or systems that ensure players follow game rules, enhancing fairness.
  • Songs and literature often use 'regulator' to represent an entity ensuring order in chaotic situations.

Translations

Translations of the word "regulator" in other languages:

🇵🇹 regulador

🇮🇳 नियामक

🇩🇪 Regler

🇮🇩 pengatur

🇺🇦 регулятор

🇵🇱 regulator

🇯🇵 レギュレーター

🇫🇷 régulateur

🇪🇸 regulador

🇹🇷 regülatör

🇰🇷 조절기

🇸🇦 منظم

🇨🇿 regulátor

🇸🇰 regulátor

🇨🇳 调节器

🇸🇮 regulator

🇮🇸 stilli

🇰🇿 реттеуші

🇬🇪 რეგულატორი

🇦🇿 tənzimləyici

🇲🇽 regulador

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,539 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.