Electronic vs. Electronical — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 15, 2024
"Electronic" relates to devices or systems using electrical components to function, while "electronical" is an uncommon and often incorrect variation of "electronic."
Difference Between Electronic and Electronical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Electronic" refers to technology and devices that operate through the controlled flow of electrons in circuits, such as computers, smartphones, and digital watches. These devices utilize components like transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits to perform a wide range of functions, from simple calculations to complex data processing. On the other hand, "electronical" is an outdated or less standard variant of "electronic," rarely used in contemporary language.
Electronic devices are integral to modern life, influencing communication, entertainment, healthcare, and more. They rely on electronic principles to manipulate and store information, making tasks faster and more efficient. In contrast, the term "electronical" does not find a specific application today and is mostly encountered in older texts or in non-standard English usage, where it might have once served a similar descriptive purpose as "electronic."
The development and innovation in the field of electronics have led to the miniaturization of devices and the expansion of their capabilities, showcasing the rapid evolution of technology. Meanwhile, the rarity of "electronical" highlights the dynamic nature of language and terminology, especially in rapidly advancing fields like technology, where clarity and precision are paramount.
In education and industry, "electronic" is the universally accepted term, used in academic programs, professional titles, and industry standards. The decline in the use of "electronical" reflects a natural linguistic preference for simpler, more streamlined terms, especially in technical and scientific discourse.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Pertaining to devices or systems using electronic components to perform their functions.
An outdated or less common form of "electronic," rarely used in modern language.
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Usage
Widely used in modern English to describe anything related to electronics.
Rarely used, considered archaic or non-standard.
Context
Applied in a vast array of fields, including computing, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.
Lacks a specific context in contemporary usage due to its rarity.
Technological Relevance
Central to discussions on modern technology and innovation.
Lacks relevance in current technological discourse.
Language Evolution
Reflects the current, standardized terminology in technology and electronics.
Demonstrates the evolution and streamlining of language in technical fields.
Compare with Definitions
Electronic
Relating to devices or systems that operate using the controlled flow of electrons.
Electronic gadgets like smartphones have become essential in daily life.
Electronical
An older or less standard term that was used to describe electronic principles or devices.
In early texts, electronical devices were mentioned, which today we simply call electronic.
Electronic
Involving circuits or devices characterized by their use of semiconductor components.
Electronic engineering is a field that focuses on the design and application of such circuits.
Electronical
Reflecting historical usage in the context of electrical engineering or electronics.
Electronical engineering might appear in historical documents but is now known as electronic engineering.
Electronic
Pertaining to music produced or manipulated by electronic instruments.
Electronic music genres have gained popularity due to their innovative sounds.
Electronical
Found in older literature or documents before "electronic" became the standard.
Electronical components are mentioned in texts predating the widespread adoption of modern electronics terminology.
Electronic
Referring to the control or transmission of information using electronic systems.
Electronic communication has revolutionized how we share information globally.
Electronical
Can be seen in poetic or creative writing to evoke a historical or archaic tone.
The novel set in the early 20th century described the fascination with electronical wonders of the time.
Electronic
Involving or using devices that operate on the principles of electronics.
The electronic voting system improved the efficiency and accuracy of the election process.
Electronical
Occasionally used in non-standard English or in specific jargon.
Some hobbyist forums might still use electronical to add a vintage or stylistic flair.
Electronic
(of a device) having or operating with components such as microchips and transistors that control and direct electric currents
An electronic organ
An electronic calculator
Electronical
(rare) electronic
Electronic
Relating to electrons.
Electronic
Carried out or accessed by means of a computer or other electronic device, especially over a network
Electronic banking
The electronic edition of the newspaper
Electronic
Of or relating to electrons.
Electronic
Of, based on, operated by, or otherwise involving the controlled conduction of electrons or other charge carriers.
Electronic
Of, relating to, or produced by means of electronics
Electronic navigation.
Electronic books.
Electronic
Of or relating to music produced or altered by electronic means, as by a tape recorder or synthesizer.
Electronic
Of, implemented on, or controlled by a computer or computer network.
Electronic
Of or pertaining to an electron or electrons.
Electronic
Operating on the physical behavior of electrons, especially in semiconductors.
Electronic
Generated by an electronic device.
Electronic music
Electronic
Of or pertaining to the Internet.
Electronic
Of or pertaining to an electron or electrons; as, electronic energy.
Electronic
Using the methods or principles of electronics as part of the working mechanism; - of devices; as, electronic circuit; electronic devices; electronic entertainment devices.
Electronic
Using computerized storage or transmission of information; as, electronic banking; electronic mail; electronic fund transfer.
Electronic
Of or pertaining to electronics.
Electronic
Of or relating to electronics; concerned with or using devices that operate on principles governing the behavior of electrons;
Electronic devices
Electronic
Of or concerned with electrons;
Electronic energy
Common Curiosities
Why is "electronical" rarely used today?
Language evolves, and "electronical" has been largely replaced by "electronic" for simplicity and standardization, particularly in technical fields.
Is "electronical" a correct term?
While "electronical" might have been used historically, it is now considered outdated or non-standard, with "electronic" being the preferred term.
What are some examples of electronic devices?
Examples include laptops, digital cameras, and e-readers, which rely on electronic principles to operate.
What does "electronic" mean?
"Electronic" pertains to devices or systems that function through the controlled movement of electrons, such as computers and smartphones.
Can "electronic" also refer to music?
Yes, "electronic" music refers to a genre where sound is produced or modified through electronic means, often using synthesizers and computers.
Can "electronical" be used in formal writing?
It's best to use "electronic" in formal and professional contexts due to its standardized and widely accepted usage.
What fields are associated with "electronic"?
Fields like electronic engineering, consumer electronics, and information technology are closely associated with electronic principles and devices.
Are there any contexts where "electronical" might still be seen?
"Electronical" might appear in historical texts, specific jargons, or stylistic writing, but it's rare in contemporary usage.
What role does "electronic" play in modern technology?
"Electronic" is central to describing the function and innovation in current technology, from consumer gadgets to complex computing systems.
Is there a difference between "electronic" and "electrical"?
Yes, "electrical" generally refers to systems or devices involving electricity, while "electronic" specifically involves the use of semiconductor devices and circuits.
How has the usage of "electronic" evolved over time?
The term "electronic" has expanded with technological advancements, now encompassing a wide range of digital and computer-based technologies.
How do advancements in electronics affect the term "electronic"?
As electronics evolve, the scope of "electronic" broadens to include new devices, applications, and technologies, reflecting ongoing innovation.
How do electronic devices impact daily life?
Electronic devices have transformed communication, entertainment, work, and healthcare, making many tasks more efficient and accessible.
Why is standardization important in terms like "electronic"?
Standardization ensures clarity and consistency, particularly in technical and scientific communication, facilitating better understanding and innovation.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
