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Steering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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steering

[หˆstษชษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

of a vehicle

The mechanism by which a vehicle is directed; a system of components in a vehicle used to direct and guide the vehicle.

Synonyms

control, direction, guidance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steering

Used when referring to the act of guiding or directing a vehicle or any device that requires navigation.

  • He took the steering wheel and drove the car smoothly
  • The boat's steering was difficult in rough waters
direction

Typically used to describe the path or course along which someone or something moves or is aimed to move.

  • He asked for directions to the nearest gas station
  • The company is moving in the right direction with its new strategy
control

Used in a broader sense to imply dominance, regulation, or the ability to manage something, not just limited to vehicles.

  • She has complete control over the project
  • The pilot lost control of the airplane
guidance

Used when referring to advice or information aimed at resolving a problem or difficulty, often coming from someone with more experience or knowledge.

  • She sought guidance from her mentor
  • The teacher provided guidance on the research project

Examples of usage

  • The steering on this car is very responsive.
  • Make sure to keep both hands on the steering wheel while driving.
Context #2 | Noun

of a ship

The equipment used to steer a ship; the mechanical apparatus used to control the direction of a ship.

Synonyms

helm, pilotage, rudder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steering

General term for controlling the direction of a vehicle, especially cars.

  • He has excellent steering skills.
  • Check the steering before starting the journey.
helm

Used for the device or the position from which a ship or boat is steered. Can also metaphorically mean being in leadership or control.

  • The captain took the helm and steered the ship toward the port.
  • She is at the helm of the new project.
rudder

Refers to the underwater blade used to steer a ship, boat, submarine, etc. Can also metaphorically indicate something that guides someone or a system.

  • The rudder was damaged during the storm.
  • Ethics serve as the rudder for good decision-making.
pilotage

Refers specifically to the navigation and control of a ship's movement within confined waters, often using visible landmarks.

  • The river pilotโ€™s expertise in pilotage is crucial for navigating through the narrow channels.
  • The ship relied on visual pilotage to enter the harbor safely.

Examples of usage

  • The captain adjusted the ship's steering to avoid the iceberg.
  • The steering of the ship was damaged in the storm.
Context #3 | Verb

to guide or direct

To guide or direct a vehicle or ship in a particular direction.

Synonyms

direct, guide, navigate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steering

Used when talking about controlling the direction of a vehicle, like a car or a boat.

  • He was tired, but he kept his hands on the steering wheel.
  • The captain is great at steering the ship through rough waters.
guide

Used when helping someone to find their way or learn something new, often in the context of mentorship or tours.

  • She guided the tourists around the old city.
  • He guided his younger brother through the college application process.
direct

Used when giving instructions or leading someone, often in the context of managing people or activities.

  • The teacher directed the students to their seats.
  • He directed the team through the project successfully.
navigate

Used when finding a way through a physical space or complex situation, like traveling or solving problems.

  • He skillfully navigated the dense forest.
  • They had to navigate through a lot of bureaucratic red tape.

Examples of usage

  • He was steering the boat towards the shore.
  • She steered her career in a new direction.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Modern vehicles use power steering systems, making it easier to turn the steering wheel with less effort.
  • Autonomous vehicles are being designed to steer themselves based on sensors and artificial intelligence.
  • Steering wheel design has evolved significantly, incorporating features like controls for audio and cruise settings.

Psychology

  • The way a driver steers can indicate their level of confidence and comfort behind the wheel.
  • Studies show that aggressive steering can lead to higher stress levels in drivers, affecting overall road safety.
  • Motor skills involved in steering engage both fine and gross motor coordination, which develops with practice.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, car chases often highlight the importance of skilled steering to navigate tight turns and obstacles.
  • Video games featuring racing often simulate steering actions, emphasizing the thrill of control and speed.
  • Famous films, like 'Fast and Furious,' showcase characters demonstrating expert steering in high-speed action scenes.

Education

  • Driving schools teach the importance of steering techniques in different weather conditions.
  • Children learn about steering through toys like cars, helping them understand direction and control from a young age.
  • In addition to driving, steering principles are applied in team sports, where players must guide the ball or themselves towards a goal.

Origin of 'steering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'sterre,' meaning to guide or direct.
  • It is related to the Old English word 'styr,' which implies strength or control over something.
  • In maritime contexts, 'steer' refers to managing the helm of a ship, reflecting its nautical roots.

The word 'steering' originated from the Old English word 'stieran', meaning 'to guide or govern'. The concept of steering has been essential in the transportation of vehicles and ships for centuries, evolving from manual mechanisms to modern power steering systems. The development of steering technology has greatly improved the control and maneuverability of vehicles, making transportation more efficient and safe.

See also: steer, steers, steersman.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,359 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.