single-phase

A single-phase motor powers the water pump in the garden.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Electrical engineering: "single-phase" refers to a type of electrical power distribution system that uses a single alternating current (AC) voltage waveform. It is the simplest form of AC power, commonly used in residential and light commercial settings for lighting, heating, and small appliances.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Most homes are supplied with single-phase electricity. (This means the electrical system uses one alternating current phase.)
  • A single-phase motor is simpler and less expensive than a three-phase motor. (The motor operates on a single AC waveform.)
  • The technician checked the single-phase power supply to the building. (The power source has only one voltage phase.)

Advanced Usage

• "single-phase circuit": a circuit that carries a single alternating current voltage.

  • The air conditioner requires a dedicated single-phase circuit. (A circuit with one phase for power.)

• "single-phase transformer": a transformer designed to handle a single-phase AC supply.

  • The electrician installed a single-phase transformer to step down the voltage. (A transformer for one-phase power.)

Variants and Related Words

• Single-phase (adj): used as a compound adjective in technical contexts.

  • The single-phase wiring was inadequate for the heavy machinery. (Wiring for one-phase power.)

• Phase (n): a distinct stage or part of a process, especially in electrical systems.

  • Three-phase power is more efficient for industrial use. (Power with three alternating currents.)

• Two-phase (adj): relating to a system with two alternating currents.

  • Two-phase systems are less common than single-phase or three-phase. (Systems with two phases.)

Synonyms

• One-phase: a less common synonym for single-phase.

  • The one-phase system is standard for household appliances. (Same meaning.)

• Monophase: a technical synonym, especially in older or European contexts.

  • Monophase power is sufficient for lighting circuits. (Single-phase power.)

Related Idioms

• "Single-phase thinking" (informal, figurative): a limited or narrow approach, often used metaphorically.
  • His single-phase thinking ignored the complexity of the project. (His simplistic approach was like a single-phase system.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Phase in: to introduce something gradually.

  • The company will phase in single-phase power for new housing developments. (Introduce slowly.)

• Phase out: to gradually discontinue.

  • They plan to phase out single-phase systems in favour of three-phase. (Remove gradually.)