Remote control: meaning, definitions and examples

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remote control

 

[ rɪˈmoʊt kənˈtroʊl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

electronic device

A remote control is an electronic device used to operate a machine or apparatus from a distance, usually wirelessly. It typically consists of a handheld device with buttons or keys to control the functions of the device it is paired with. Remote controls are commonly used for televisions, DVD players, air conditioners, and other household appliances.

Synonyms

clicker, controller, zapper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
remote control

The most common term used for the handheld device that operates electronic devices like TVs or air conditioners.

  • Can you pass me the remote control? I want to change the channel.
  • I need to replace the batteries in the remote control.
controller

Commonly used in the context of gaming consoles or devices with more complex control features.

  • I need a new controller for my Xbox.
  • The controller for the drone has a lot of buttons.
clicker

An informal and casual term primarily used in the United States, often when referring to a TV remote.

  • Where did you put the clicker? The game's about to start.
  • Stop hogging the clicker and let me choose what to watch.
zapper

A very informal and somewhat outdated term, often used humorously. It may have a nostalgic or playful undertone.

  • Grandpa always calls the remote the zapper.
  • Pass me the zapper, I want to see what's on the news.

Examples of usage

  • The remote control allows you to change the channel without getting up from the couch.
  • I can adjust the volume of the music using the remote control.
Context #2 | Noun

emotional detachment

In a psychological context, remote control refers to the act of emotionally detaching oneself from a situation or person. It may involve keeping a distance or disconnecting emotionally to protect oneself from negative influences or feelings.

Synonyms

detachment, disconnection, distance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
remote control

Used when referring to an electronic device that allows one to operate machinery or appliances from a distance.

  • He used the remote control to change the TV channels.
  • The toy car can be operated with a remote control.
detachment

Refers to a state of being emotionally uninvolved or separated from a situation, often perceived as neutral or indifferent.

  • Her detachment from the chaos around her helped her stay calm.
  • He felt a sense of detachment after moving to a new city.
distance

Used to describe the physical space between two points, or emotional estrangement. In emotional contexts, it can sometimes imply a lack of closeness.

  • There is a long distance between New York and Los Angeles.
  • She felt a growing distance between herself and her best friend.
disconnection

Implies a break or severance in communication or connection, whether physically or emotionally. It can have a negative connotation.

  • There was a disconnection in their phone line after the storm.
  • The disconnection between the team members led to several misunderstandings.

Examples of usage

  • She felt the need to exercise remote control to protect her mental health.
  • He used remote control as a coping mechanism in dealing with the stressful situation.

Translations

Translations of the word "remote control" in other languages:

🇵🇹 controle remoto

🇮🇳 रिमोट कंट्रोल

🇩🇪 Fernbedienung

🇮🇩 kontrol jarak jauh

🇺🇦 пульт дистанційного керування

🇵🇱 pilot zdalnego sterowania

🇯🇵 リモコン

🇫🇷 télécommande

🇪🇸 control remoto

🇹🇷 uzaktan kumanda

🇰🇷 리모컨

🇸🇦 جهاز التحكم عن بعد

🇨🇿 dálkové ovládání

🇸🇰 diaľkové ovládanie

🇨🇳 遥控器

🇸🇮 daljinski upravljalnik

🇮🇸 fjarstýring

🇰🇿 қашықтан басқару пульті

🇬🇪 დისტანციური მართვა

🇦🇿 uzaqdan idarəetmə

🇲🇽 control remoto

Etymology

The term 'remote control' originated in the early 20th century with the development of wireless technology. The first practical remote control was invented in the 1890s by Nikola Tesla, who demonstrated a remote-controlled boat. Over the years, remote controls have become an integral part of modern technology, revolutionizing the way we interact with electronic devices.