Meaning & use
module
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Meanings
nouncountable
One of a set of separate parts that can be joined together to make a whole system or structure.
Grammar: Countable: use a/an or a plural: a module, several modules.
Patterns
- a module of something
- fit/attach a module to something
The space station is built from modules that were launched separately.
You can add a memory module to make the computer faster.
The furniture comes in modules that you assemble yourself.
nouncountable
A unit of study that is part of a course or training program, especially at a college or university.
Grammar: Often used with on or in: a module on marketing.
Patterns
- a module on/in something
- take/complete a module
I'm taking a module on environmental economics this term.
Students must complete six modules to earn the certificate.
The first module introduces basic programming concepts.
nouncountablecomputing
A part of a computer program or software system that can be used independently or with other parts.
Grammar: Common in computing; often used with for or in: a module for handling payments.
Patterns
- a module for doing something
- load/import a module
The app uses a separate module for processing payments.
You can import the math module to perform calculations.
Each module in the system can be updated without affecting the others.
Word forms
| plural | modules |
|---|
Common combinations
- training module
- New employees must complete an online training module.
- memory module
- Adding a memory module sped up the laptop.
- optional module
- She chose an optional module in creative writing.
- module leader
- The module leader posted the reading list online.
Synonyms and how they differ
- unit
- Unit is a more general word for a single part of a whole; module often suggests a self-contained part that can be combined with others, especially in education or computing.
- component
- Component emphasizes a part that is necessary for the whole to work, while module often emphasizes that the part can be added or removed independently.
Word family
- modular adjective
- Made of separate parts that can be combined or arranged in different ways.
- modularity noun
- The quality of being made of separate, interchangeable parts.
Commonly confused: module or modem?
module vs modem
A modem is a device that connects computers to the internet, while a module is a part of a system or a unit of study.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'module' correctly?
Choose one answer.
In education, a module is a unit of study, so 'divided into six modules' fits. Option A confuses 'module' with 'modem', which is the device for internet connection. Option C uses 'module' as a verb, which it is not. Option D uses 'module' where 'engine' or 'part' would be more natural; 'module' is not a general word for any car part.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “module”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.