Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Semi-automatic: Describes a machine, device, or system that performs a sequence of operations automatically but requires a manual initiation for each cycle or step. It combines automatic functions with necessary human input or control.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Vũ khí bán tự động rất phổ biến. (Semi-automatic weapons are very common.)
  • Nhà máy sử dụng máy tiện bán tự động. (The factory uses a semi-automatic lathe.)
  • Đây là một hệ thống bán tự động, vì vậy bạn cần nhấn nút để bắt đầu mỗi lần. (This is a semi-automatic system, so you need to press the button to start each time.)

Advanced Usage

• Technical/Engineering Context: Often used to describe machinery (e.g., - semi-automatic machine) or industrial processes where an operator loads/unloads materials or initiates the cycle, while the core operation runs automatically.
• Firearms Context: Specifically refers to firearms () that fire one round per trigger pull and automatically chamber the next round, but do not continue firing while the trigger is held down.

Variants and Related Words

• Tự động (adj): Automatic; operating independently with little or no direct human control.
• Bán (prefix): A prefix meaning "semi-" or "half-", indicating partiality (e.g., - semicircular, - peninsula).
• Tự động hóa (n): Automation; the technique of making a process or system operate automatically.

Synonyms

• Nửa tự động: Semi-automatic (less common, direct synonym).

Related Phrases (Compound Terms)

• Máy bán tự động: Semi-automatic machine.
• Súng bán tự động: Semi-automatic gun/rifle/pistol.
• Hộp số bán tự động: Semi-automatic transmission (in vehicles).

adj

1. Semi-automatic