on/off switch

Thân thiện

The child flips the on/off switch on the lamp.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A hinged switch that can assume either of two positions: A simple mechanical control device, typically a lever or button, that is used to start or stop the flow of electricity to a machine or system by moving between two fixed states.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The on/off switch is located on the back of the computer.
  • He flipped the on/off switch to power up the device.
  • For safety, always use the main on/off switch to disconnect the appliance.

Advanced Usage

• As a metaphorical concept: The term can be used figuratively to describe something that has only two extreme modes of operation or states of being.
  • His creativity doesn't have an on/off switch; it's a constant process.
  • Treating complex emotions as a simple on/off switch is unrealistic.

Variants and Related Words

• Power switch: A more general term for a switch that controls electrical power.
• Toggle switch: A specific type of switch with a hinged lever that is moved up and down or side to side, often functioning as an on/off switch.
• Rockerswitch: A switch that rocks back and forth when pressed, commonly used for on/off functions in household appliances.

Synonyms

• Power button: (Common in modern electronics) A button that controls the main power state.
• Main switch: A switch that controls the primary power supply to a system.

Related Phrases

• Flip the switch: An idiom meaning to activate or deactivate something suddenly.
  • He can flip the switch from serious to playful in an instant.
• Switch on/off: Phrasal verbs meaning to activate or deactivate a device using a switch.
  • Please switch off the lights when you leave.
  • She switched on the radio to hear the news.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a hinged switch that can assume either of two positions

Từ đồng nghĩa

• toggle switch
• toggle
• on-off switch