automate
To convert a process or facility to be operated by largely automatic equipment, reducing human intervention.
Automate implies setting up a system of rules so that actions happen on their own without needing a human to press a button or make a decision each time.
Word relationships
- mechanize: Mechanize refers to replacing manual labor with physical machinery, whereas automate implies using control systems and computers to run those machines without human guidance.
- systematize: Systematize means to organize things into an orderly system, which can be done entirely on paper, whereas automate requires technological execution.
- manualize: Manualize means to convert an automated or computerized process back into one that requires hands-on human labor.
Commonly confused with
- program: To program is to write the instructions for a device, while to automate is the broader goal of making the entire process run by itself using those programs.
Word family
- automation (noun): The use of largely automatic equipment in a system of manufacturing or other processes.
- automatic (adjective): Operating by itself with little or no direct human control.
- automatically (adverb): In a manner that is automatic or self-operating.
Collocations
- fully automate
- automate a process
- automate tasks
- home automation
Example sentences
- "If you automate your morning routine, the coffee maker will start brewing as soon as your smart alarm detects you are awake." Smart home convenience
- "The factory decided to automate its packaging line, which significantly increased production speed and reduced errors." Industrial efficiency
Memory hook
Think of an 'auto' (car) that drives itself; to 'automate' is to make any process run on its own 'auto-pilot'. Automate makes it run on auto-pilot.
When not to use
Do not use 'automate' when you simply mean 'using a computer' to do manual work. If you still have to manually enter every command, you are digitizing, not automating.
Fun facts
- The earliest recorded automated device was a steam-powered bird created by Archytas of Tarentum in the 4th century BC, which could fly about 200 meters.
Explore more words
automation, mechanize, modernize, streamline, accelerate, systematize
Also appears in
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