Analogue Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/əˈnæləʊg/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

A thing or process that is similar in form, structure, or function to another, often an electrical or electronic device, that is not quite exact or identical.

Examples

• The analyst struggled to find a suitable analogue for the complex mathematical equation.
• This new smartwatch is an analogue version of our flagship model.
• Unlike today’s digital cameras, old film cameras were true analogues of photography.
• The teacher demonstrated an analogue to help the students understand the concept.
• The new smartphone app offers a more accurate analogue system, unlike previous versions.

Synonyms

• Similar
• Somewhat

Antonyms

• Exact
• Identical

Etymology

The word “analogue” comes from the Greek words “ana” meaning “like” and “logos” meaning “word” or “reasoning”, and was first used in the 17th century to describe similar structures in mathematics and science.

Usage Notes

When using the term “analogue”, it’s essential to clarify the specific context in which the word is applied. In science, an analogue is often taken to refer to a similar entity or process, while in everyday conversation, it may be used more loosely to describe something that is similar or comparable.

Cultural References

Analogue devices and processes have been featured in various works of science fiction, including movies and TV shows, as a means to blend old and new technology.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“On the same wavelength” is an idiomatic expression meaning to be in tune with someone’s thoughts, similar to an analogue signal.

Related Words or Phrases

Collocations

• Analogue machine
• Analogue system
• Analogue signal

Frequency of Use

The term “analogue” is commonly used in technical and scientific contexts, particularly in the fields of electronics, engineering, and mathematics.

Common Misspellings

• Analagoue
• Analogueous