What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contraption
Example
The inventor showed off his latest contraption, a machine that could peel potatoes in seconds. [contraption: noun]
Example
He rigged up a contraption using a coat hanger and some string to catch the mouse in his house. [contraption: noun]
mechanism
Example
The mechanism of the clock was intricate and precise, with many gears and springs working together. [mechanism: noun]
Example
The scientist explained the mechanism by which the vaccine worked to protect against the virus. [mechanism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mechanism is a more common and widely used term than contraption. Mechanism is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while contraption is less common and may be used in more informal or creative settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contraption and mechanism?
Mechanism is a more formal and technical term than contraption, which has a more casual and informal tone. Mechanism can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while contraption is typically used in more creative or playful settings.
