|
tool is an appliance, but not every appliance is a tool; the traces of a harness are appliances for traction, but
they are not tools. Mechanism is a word of wide meaning, denoting any combination of mechanical devices
for united action. A machine in the most general sense is any mechanical instrument for the conversion of
motion; in this sense a lever is a machine; but in more commonly accepted usage a machine is distinguished
from a tool by its complexity, and by the combination and coordination of powers and movements for the
production of a result. A chisel by itself is a tool; when it is set so as to be operated by a crank and pitman, the
entire mechanism is called a machine; as, a mortising-machine. An apparatus may be a machine, but the word
is commonly used for a collection of distinct articles to be used in connection or combination for a certain
purpose--a mechanical equipment; as, the apparatus of a gymnasium; especially, for a collection of
appliances for some scientific purpose; as, a chemical or surgical apparatus; an apparatus may include many
tools, instruments, or implements. Implement is for the most part and utensil is altogether restricted to the
literal sense; instrument, machine, and tool have figurative use, instrument being used largely in a good, tool
Synonyms and Antonyms, by James Champlin Fernald
285
always in a bad sense; machine inclines to the unfavorable sense, as implying that human agents are made
mechanically subservient to some controlling will; as, an instrument of Providence; the tool of a tyrant; a
political machine.
* * * * *
TOPIC.
Synonyms:
division, issue, motion, proposition, subject, head, matter, point, question, theme.
A topic (Gr. topos, place) is a head of discourse. Since a topic for discussion is often stated in the form of a
question, question has come to be extensively used to denote a debatable topic, especially of a practical
nature--an issue; as, the labor question; the temperance question. In deliberative assemblies a proposition
presented or moved for acceptance is called a motion, and such a motion or other matter for consideration is
known as the question, since it is or may be stated in interrogative form to be answered by each member with
a vote of "aye" or "no;" a member is required to speak to the question; the chairman puts the question. In
speaking or writing the general subject or theme may be termed the topic, tho it is more usual to apply the
latter term to the subordinate divisions, points, or heads of discourse; as, to enlarge on this topic would carry
me too far from my subject; a pleasant drive will suggest many topics for conversation.
* * * * *
TRACE.
Synonyms:
footmark, impression, remains, token, trail, footprint, mark, remnant, track, vestige. footstep, memorial, sign,
A memorial is that which is intended or fitted to bring to remembrance something that has passed away; it
may be vast and stately. On the other hand, a slight token of regard may be a cherished memorial of a friend;
either a concrete object or an observance may be a memorial. A vestige is always slight compared with that
whose existence it recalls; as, scattered mounds containing implements, weapons, etc., are vestiges of a former
civilization. A vestige is always a part of that which has passed away; a trace may be merely the mark made
by something that has been present or passed by, and that is still existing, or some slight evidence of its
presence or of the effect it has produced; as, traces of game were observed by the hunter. Compare
CHARACTERISTIC.
* * * * *
TRANSACT.
Synonyms:
accomplish, carry on, do, perform, act, conduct, negotiate, treat.
There are many acts that one may do, accomplish, or perform unaided; what he transacts is by means of or in
association with others; one may do a duty, perform a vow, accomplish a task, but he transacts business, since
that always involves the agency of others. To negotiate and to treat are likewise collective acts, but both these
words lay stress upon deliberation with adjustment of mutual claims and interests; transact, while it may
depend upon previous deliberation, states execution only. Notes, bills of exchange, loans, and treaties are said
Synonyms and Antonyms, by James Champlin Fernald
286
to be negotiated, the word so used covering not merely the preliminary consideration, but the final settlement.
Do'stlaringiz bilan baham: |
