Technical English is a specialized area of English that focuses on language used in the engineering and technological fields. It allows professionals to communicate complex technical information clearly and effectively. This blog aims to introduce key terms that are essential for engineers and technologists when dealing with texts, manuals, reports, and communication in English.
Blueprint
A blueprint is a detailed technical drawing that showcases the design, structure, and specifications of objects, particularly buildings and machines.
Can you send me the updated blueprint for the mechanical assembly?
Calibration
Calibration refers to the process of adjusting the precision and accuracy of an instrument or equipment by comparison with a standard measure or reference.
Regular calibration of the equipment is necessary to ensure accurate readings.
Circuit
A circuit is a path or a closed loop through which an electric current travels or may travel.
The technician identified a short circuit in the power supply.
Prototype
A prototype is an early model or release of a product that is built to test a concept or process.
The engineering team created a prototype that will undergo several tests.
Torque
Torque is a measure of the force that can cause an object to rotate about an axis.
The spec sheet provides information about the engine’s torque capacity.
Viscosity
Viscosity is a physical property that represents the resistance of a fluid to flow.
Engine oil viscosity can affect vehicle performance, especially in cold weather.
Algorithm
An algorithm is a set of well-defined instructions or a procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing a task, especially by a computer.
We designed an efficient algorithm to handle the data encryption process.
Benchmark
In technology and engineering, a benchmark is a standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.
The new software will be evaluated against industry benchmarks for performance.
Composite
A composite is a material made from two or more different substances that, when combined, produce a material with characteristics different from the individual components.
Carbon fiber is a strong, lightweight composite used in many high-performance applications.
Latency
Latency refers to the delay before a transfer of data begins following an instruction for its transfer.
High network latency can seriously affect response times in web applications.
Modulate
To modulate means to vary the frequency, amplitude, phase, or other characteristics of a signal, typically for the purposes of data transmission or signal processing.
The communication system needs to modulate the signal before transmission.
Tolerance
Tolerance in engineering refers to the permissible limit or limits of variation in a physical dimension or measurement.
The machine parts were manufactured with a high degree of tolerance.
Transducer
A transducer is a device that converts one form of energy into another, particularly electrical signals into physical movement or vice versa.
The microphone is a type of transducer that converts sound waves into electrical signals.
Understanding and using these words correctly can greatly enhance communication among engineers and technologists, providing a clearer understanding of technical documentation, discussions, and presentations. As the field of technology evolves, so does technical English, and keeping up to date with new terminology is essential for professionals working in this ever-changing landscape.