actuate

/'æktjueit/

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Explanation of the Word "Actuate"

Definition: The verb "actuate" means to cause something to start working or to make someone take action. It can also mean to trigger a reaction or to put something into motion.

Advanced Usage:

In more complex contexts, "actuate" can refer to initiating processes or responses, often in technical or mechanical settings: - "The sensor will actuate the alarm if it detects smoke."

Word Variants:

• Actuation (noun): The act of putting something into action or motion.
  • Example: "The actuation of the safety system prevented the accident."
• Actuator (noun): A device that causes something to move or operate.
  • Example: "The actuator in the robot allows it to lift heavy objects."

Different Meanings:

1. Mechanical Context: In engineering, "actuate" refers to the functioning of parts in machines.
   • Example: "The hydraulics actuate the lift of the platform."
2. Motivational Context: Refers to inspiring or encouraging someone to take action.
   • Example: "The teacher's encouragement actuated the students to work harder."

Synonyms:

• Activate
• Trigger
• Initiate
• Propel
• Motivate

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "actuate" itself doesn’t have specific idioms or phrasal verbs, you might encounter phrases that convey similar meanings: - "Set in motion": This means to start something, especially a process or plan. - Example: "The new policy set in motion several changes in the organization." - "Get things rolling": This means to start an activity or process. - Example: "We need to get things rolling on this project as soon as possible."

Summary:

"Actuate" is a versatile verb that can mean to start something or to motivate someone. It is commonly used in both technical and motivational contexts.

Academic

Verb

1. give an incentive for action
   • This moved me to sacrifice my career
2. put in motion or move to act
   • trigger a reaction
   • actuate the circuits

Synonyms

• motivate
• propel
• move
• prompt
• incite
• trip
• trigger
• activate
• set off
• spark off
• spark
• trigger off
• touch off