Device vs Devise
What’s the difference between them?
Device
Meaning:
an object made for a particular purpose, especially a machine or mechanical part.
Examples:
1. I have a device that can help me find my car keys.
2. I need to install a new device on my computer.
3. My friend has a device that can measure the temperature in her house.
Devise
Meaning:
to devise means to come up with a creative plan or design.
Examples:
1. The team had to devise a plan to fix the broken machine.
2. He devised a new way to solve the puzzle quickly.
3. The professor devised a unique experiment to test the students.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Device
1. Gadget
2. Instrument
3. Apparatus
4. Contraption
5. Mechanical contrivance
1. Inability
2. Unavailability
3. Manual
4. Organic
5. Analogous
Devise
1. Concoct
2. Invent
3. Design
4. Formulate
5. Engineer
1. Dismantle
2. Disregard
3. Forget
4. Annul
5. Abolish
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Device", "Devise".
1. A device is a piece of equipment, often with a specific purpose. It can be physical or virtual and used to perform a task.
2. Devise is a verb meaning to come up with or create something. It is used when referring to inventing a plan.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should 'Device' be used?
Device is used when referring to a piece of equipment or machinery made for a specific purpose. It can be any kind of tool, instrument, machine, or apparatus that has a specific purpose or use.
When is the appropriate context for using 'Devise'?
Devise is used when referring to the action of inventing or creating something, typically a plan or strategy. It can also be used to refer to something that has been designed or planned to achieve a particular purpose.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, these words have similar pronunciation, so you have pay attention to the context to use the correct word.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake is using the wrong word in a sentence. Additionally, some people use the word device when they should be using devise, or vice versa.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. My grandfather still uses an old _______ to tune his radio.
2. The engineer was able to _______ a solution for the structural problem.
3. Can you show me how to operate this _______?
4. The team will _______ a strategy to improve sales this quarter.
5. The invention of the mobile phone was a groundbreaking _______.
6. The playwright took months to _______ the intricate plot of his play.
1. Answer: device
Explanation: The context is referring to a tangible object used for a specific purpose, which is best described by the term device.
2. Answer: devise
Explanation: Here, the engineer is coming up with a creative solution, aligning with the definition of devise.
3. Answer: device
Explanation: The context is about operating a tangible object, which fits the definition of device.
4. Answer: devise
Explanation: The team is coming up with (or creating) a strategy, which aligns with the definition of devise.
5. Answer: device
Explanation: The mobile phone is referred to as an object made for a particular purpose, making device the best fit.
6. Answer: devise
Explanation: The playwright is creating or coming up with an intricate plot, fitting the definition of devise.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.