Meaning & use
transformer
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Meanings
nouncountable
An electrical device that changes the voltage of an alternating current, usually increasing or decreasing it.
Grammar: Countable: a transformer, two transformers.
Patterns
- a transformer converts/raises/lowers voltage
- a step-up/step-down transformer
The power station uses a transformer to raise the voltage before sending electricity through the grid.
A step-down transformer reduces the voltage from 240 volts to a safer level for homes.
The old transformer outside the building hummed loudly all night.
nouncountableinformaltrademark
A toy or robot character that can change its shape, especially from a vehicle into a robot.
Grammar: Countable; often used in the plural for the toy line or film series.
Patterns
- a Transformer toy/figure
My little brother got a new Transformer for his birthday.
The film is based on the popular Transformers franchise.
Word forms
| plural | transformers |
|---|
Common combinations
- electrical transformer
- An electrical transformer is essential for long-distance power transmission.
- step-up transformer
- A step-up transformer increases the voltage for transmission.
- step-down transformer
- A step-down transformer lowers the voltage for home use.
- power transformer
- The power transformer failed during the storm.
Synonyms and how they differ
- converter
- A converter changes one form of energy or signal to another, while a transformer specifically changes AC voltage.
- inverter
- An inverter changes DC to AC, not voltage levels like a transformer.
Word family
- transform verb
- To change completely in form or appearance.
- transformation noun
- A complete change.
Commonly confused: transformer or transistor?
transformer vs transistor
A transistor is a semiconductor device for amplifying or switching signals, not for changing voltage.
Practice
A device that increases or decreases voltage in an electrical circuit is called a ______.
Choose one answer.
A transformer changes AC voltage. A transistor amplifies signals, a converter changes energy form, and an inverter changes DC to AC.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “transformer”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.