What does “Cog in the machine” mean?
"Cog in the machine" means a person who is part of a larger system or organization and has a specific role or function.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He's just a cog in the machine, doing his job without questioning.
Example
Every cog in the machine plays a crucial role in the company's success.
Example
She felt like a small cog in the machine, with no control over her own work
Is “Cog in the machine” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Cog in the machine” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Cog in the machine” effectively in context?
You can use "Cog in the Machine" to describe someone who is a small part of a larger system or organization, emphasizing their lack of individuality or autonomy. For example, if someone is just following orders without questioning or making independent decisions, you might say, 'He's just a cog in the machine, doing his job without questioning.'
- 1Work
Every cog in the machine plays a crucial role in the company's success.
- 2Feeling of Powerlessness
She felt like a small cog in the machine, with no control over her own work.
- 3Lack of Individuality
In a large corporation, employees often feel like cogs in the machine, with little opportunity for creativity or personal expression.
Similar phrases to “Cog in the machine”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Cog in the machine” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Cog in the Machine" is unknown.
Is “Cog in the machine” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Cog in the Machine" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe the feeling of being a small and insignificant part of a larger system or organization.
What tone does “Cog in the machine” have?
"Cog in the Machine" conveys a tone of insignificance and lack of individuality. It is often used to express frustration or dissatisfaction with a situation where one feels powerless or unimportant.
Can “Cog in the machine” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Cog in the Machine" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of being a small part of a larger system or organization. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's just a cog in the machine, doing his job without questioning.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Just another cog in the machine.' to imply a sense of insignificance.
