System: meaning, definitions and examples

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system

 

[ ˈsɪstəm ]

Context #1 | Noun

operating

A set of connected things or parts forming a complex whole.

Synonyms

arrangement, organization, structure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
system

Use when talking about a set of connected things or parts working together for a specific purpose, often in technology or biology.

  • The new IT system has improved productivity.
  • The cardiovascular system is essential for sustaining life.
structure

Ideal for talking about the physical or conceptual arrangement of parts, often in a more formal or technical context.

  • The structure of the building is very complex.
  • Understanding the structure of a sentence is important for writing.
organization

Typically used to describe the way in which something is structured, especially in a business or administrative setting.

  • The organization of the event was very professional.
  • Good organization is key to a successful project.
arrangement

Best used when referring to the way things are positioned or coordinated, especially in a more casual or informal setting.

  • The seating arrangement at the wedding was perfect.
  • We made an arrangement to meet at the coffee shop.

Examples of usage

  • The human body is a complex system of organs.
  • The solar system consists of the sun, planets, and other celestial bodies.
Context #2 | Noun

computing

A group of hardware components or software applications working together to perform a specific function.

Synonyms

framework, network, platform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
system

Used to describe a set of interconnected components working together within a whole, often referring to organizations, technologies, or processes.

  • The healthcare system in this country needs improvement.
  • A solar system consists of the sun and the planets orbiting it.
framework

Often used in technical and organizational contexts to describe a basic structure that supports or guides the development of something.

  • The new software was built using a robust framework.
  • Her proposal laid out the framework for improving the company's working conditions.
platform

Refers to a base of technologies, services or media on which other applications, services, or processes are built. It can also describe a stage for presenting ideas.

  • The new social media platform is gaining popularity.
  • The company is using a new e-commerce platform to sell its products.
network

Describes a group of interconnected people, computers, or organizations, often emphasizing communication and relationships.

  • She has a strong network of professional contacts.
  • The company's network security needs to be improved.

Examples of usage

  • The operating system is a crucial part of any computer system.
  • This software system helps businesses manage their inventory efficiently.
Context #3 | Noun

social

A set of principles or procedures according to which something is done.

Synonyms

method, procedure, process.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
system

Similar to the first entry, used to describe an organized set of components. Duplicated for clarity on another context or field usage.

  • The computer system crashed due to a malware attack.
  • The body's immune system protects against infections.
method

Refers to a specific way or technique of doing something. Typically used in contexts that focus on the approach or technique used.

  • He developed an innovative method for teaching children to read.
  • What's the best method for solving this equation?
process

Denotes a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a specific end. Often used in business, production, and scientific contexts.

  • The hiring process at this company involves several stages.
  • Photosynthesis is a process used by plants to convert light into energy.
procedure

Describes a series of steps followed in a particular order to accomplish a task. Commonly used in medical, legal, and administrative contexts.

  • The surgeon explained the procedure to the patient before the operation.
  • Follow the procedure outlined in the manual to reboot the machine.

Examples of usage

  • The legal system in the country ensures justice for all citizens.
  • The educational system aims to provide knowledge and skills to students.

Translations

Translations of the word "system" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sistema

🇮🇳 प्रणाली

🇩🇪 System

🇮🇩 sistem

🇺🇦 система

🇵🇱 system

🇯🇵 システム

🇫🇷 système

🇪🇸 sistema

🇹🇷 sistem

🇰🇷 시스템

🇸🇦 نظام

🇨🇿 systém

🇸🇰 systém

🇨🇳 系统

🇸🇮 sistem

🇮🇸 kerfi

🇰🇿 жүйе

🇬🇪 სისტემა

🇦🇿 sistem

🇲🇽 sistema

Etymology

The word 'system' originated from the Late Latin word 'systema', which in turn came from the Greek word 'sustēma' meaning 'organized whole'. The concept of a system has been fundamental in various fields including science, engineering, and social sciences, emphasizing the interconnection and interdependence of parts working together to achieve a common goal.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #99, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.