clockwork

/'klɔkwə:k/

Thân thiện

The old toy soldier marches forward with precise clockwork.

Definition

Noun: - A mechanism of geared wheels driven by a coiled spring: A precise mechanical system resembling the internal workings of a mechanical clock or similar device. - Extreme regularity and precision: Used figuratively to describe something that operates with flawless, predictable regularity.

Usage

• Literal (Mechanism): Refers to the intricate system of gears and springs inside devices like clocks, toys, or automata.
  • The old music box was powered by delicate clockwork.
  • He carefully wound the clockwork of the antique toy.
• Figurative (Regularity): Describes actions or processes that are extremely reliable and precise.
  • The event ran like clockwork, with every detail perfectly timed.
  • Her morning routine functioned with clockwork precision.

Advanced Usage

• "like clockwork": (idiom) With perfect regularity and predictability.
  • Every day at noon, the parade begins like clockwork.
• "clockwork precision": (phrase) Extreme mechanical accuracy.
  • The team executed the complex maneuver with clockwork precision.

Variants and Related Words

• Clockwork Orange: (noun phrase) A title popularized by Anthony Burgess's novel, suggesting something organic (an orange) forced into a mechanistic, conditioned state.
• Clockwork mechanism: (noun phrase) The specific internal gear assembly of a clockwork device.

Synonyms

• Mechanism: A system of parts working together.
• Automation: The use of automatic equipment or systems.
• Regularity: The state or quality of being regular.

Related Idioms

• "As regular as clockwork": Functioning with unwavering consistency.
  • The bus arrives as regular as clockwork at 7:03 AM.

Học thuật

Noun

1. any mechanism of geared wheels that is driven by a coiled spring; resembles the works of a mechanical clock