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electrical circuit

electrical circuit

3 3.3
A closed path of wires and parts that lets power flow
  • noun
  • /ɪˈlɛktrɪkəl ˈsɜrkɪt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : circuito eléctrico
  • A common cause of electrical circuit malfunctions in homes is improper grounding.
  • electrical circuit can be used

Examples

  • There is movement in electrical circuits—the movement of electrons—but you cannot see this movement.

    Academic text (2008)
  • Do not overload electrical circuits.

    Blog text (32)
  • Explain how work was being done in the electrical circuit used to test your turbine.

    Academic text (2008)
  • Next time, be sure to check first that the electrical circuits needed for power are not overloaded.

    Academic text (2003)
  • It is the difference in potential that creates the current in an electrical circuit.

    Academic text (2011)
  • Tribeca Grill suffered significant damage to its boiler room and electrical circuits.

    Blog text (23)
  • The electrical circuit that energized the fluoride system was modified to prevent another overfeed.

    Academic text (2002)
  • The electrical circuit energizing the fluoride system was redesigned to prevent the fluoride feeder from operating when the water well was not pumping.

    Academic text (2002)
  • An electrical circuit connects several components, allowing electricity to flow between them.

  • When designing an electrical circuit, make sure to include a power source and a switch.

Synonyms

circuit
vselectrical circuit
  • Specialized
162 3.6

A path of wires and parts that electricity flows through

is the more specific phrase stressing electricity in the closed path
loop
vselectrical circuit
  • Specialized
87 4.9

A closed path where electric current or signals flow

is the general closed network not limited to continuous circulation
electric circuit
vselectrical circuit
  • Specialized
1 3.5

A closed path of wires and parts that lets electricity flow

is more about the closed path itself rather than including a power source

How Complex

electronic network
  • Specialized
1 3.9
electrical circuit
  • Specialized
3 3.3

Surface Forms

Morphology

electrical + circuit

The meaning is a direct composition of 'electrical' (relating to electricity) modifying 'circuit' (a route or network for electric current), so the combined sense is immediately derivable from the parts. This follows standard noun + modifier patterns and is conceptually similar across many languages, making it readily understandable to a B1 learner who knows both words.

Etymology

The compound electrical circuit gives a simple image: electricity moves around a circuit, a loop of wires and parts, and electrical shows it is about electricity. If the loop is broken the flow stops, so it means 'a complete path that lets electric current move'.