Settings: meaning, definitions and examples

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settings

 

[ ˈsɛtɪŋz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

computer

The various options or preferences that can be selected or adjusted on a computer system or application.

Synonyms

configuration, options, preferences.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settings

Best used when referring to general adjustments or configurations in a system, application, or device. Common in technology-related contexts.

  • You can change the display settings on your smartphone to make the text larger
  • Navigate to the settings menu to adjust your preferences
options

Used when referring to a set of choices that are available to a user. Commonly found in user interface design and user experience contexts.

  • There are several options available for customizing your homepage layout
  • You can find the sound options in the audio settings menu
preferences

Used to describe the personal likes or choices of an individual, often in settings where customization is possible. More personal and subjective than other terms.

  • You can set your language preferences in the account settings
  • Adjust your notification preferences according to your needs
configuration

Typically used in technical environments to describe the arrangement of parts or elements in a particular form, figure, or combination. Often associated with hardware or software setups.

  • The network configuration needs to be updated to improve security
  • Ensure that the server configuration is optimized for better performance

Examples of usage

  • You can customize the settings to suit your needs.
  • The settings menu allows you to change the display brightness.
  • I adjusted the settings to improve the performance of my computer.
Context #2 | Noun

general

The way in which something is set, arranged, or organized.

Synonyms

background, environment, scene.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settings

Refers to the conditions or circumstances in which something happens or exists, particularly in films, books, or technical contexts.

  • The story is set in a dystopian setting
  • You can change the privacy settings on your phone
environment

Commonly refers to the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. Also used in discussions about nature and ecology.

  • We need to protect the environment
  • The office environment was very welcoming
scene

Used to describe a division of an act in a play or a place of action in a real or fictional event. Also can describe a public view or an incident.

  • The crime scene was carefully examined by the detectives
  • He loves the local music scene
background

Often used to describe the scenery behind the main focus of an image or area from which something comes. Can also describe a person's personal history.

  • She has a background in engineering
  • The mountains made a beautiful background for our photos

Examples of usage

  • The settings of the stage were impressive.
  • Her novel had a rural setting.
  • The film's exotic setting captured the audience's attention.
Context #3 | Noun

social

The surroundings or environment in which an event or activity takes place.

Synonyms

location, site, venue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settings

Use 'settings' when referring to the configuration or arrangement of something, often used in the context of devices, software, or environments.

  • I need to change the settings of my phone to enable dark mode.
  • The story is set in a picturesque settings of a small village.
location

Use 'location' when referring to a specific place or position, usually a geographical point or address.

  • The location of the new restaurant is very convenient.
  • Can you send me your exact location?
venue

Use 'venue' when referring to a place where an event or gathering occurs, such as concerts, weddings, or conferences.

  • The concert will be held at a large venue downtown.
  • We need to find a suitable venue for the wedding reception.
site

Use 'site' when referring to an area or place where a specific activity is happening, often associated with construction, historical significance, or the internet (website).

  • The construction site is very busy today.
  • We visited the site of the ancient ruins during our vacation.
  • Make sure to check the official site for updates.

Examples of usage

  • The wedding had a beautiful outdoor setting.
  • The restaurant had a cozy setting for a romantic dinner.
  • The conference took place in a modern setting.

Translations

Translations of the word "settings" in other languages:

🇵🇹 configurações

🇮🇳 सेटिंग्स

🇩🇪 Einstellungen

🇮🇩 pengaturan

🇺🇦 налаштування

🇵🇱 ustawienia

🇯🇵 設定

🇫🇷 paramètres

🇪🇸 configuraciones

🇹🇷 ayarlar

🇰🇷 설정

🇸🇦 إعدادات

🇨🇿 nastavení

🇸🇰 nastavenia

🇨🇳 设置

🇸🇮 nastavitve

🇮🇸 stillingar

🇰🇿 баптаулар

🇬🇪 პარამეტრები

🇦🇿 quraşdırmalar

🇲🇽 configuraciones

Etymology

The word 'settings' has originated from the verb 'set' which dates back to Middle English. It has evolved over time to refer to the various options or arrangements that can be selected or adjusted. In the context of computers, 'settings' gained popularity with the development of user interfaces and customization features in software applications.

See also: beset, offset, onset, preset, reset, set, setback, setlist, settability, settee, setting, settling, setup, subset, unset.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,544, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.