etymology - Why is home electricity supply called "mains"? - English ...
Jun 4, 2017 · The word "mains" seems to be a widely understood synonym for home electricity supply. Why is it called so? I always thought it was a corruption of main [electricity supply]. Is it an American …
When is "Mains" or "grid" no longer the correct electrical term?
Sep 8, 2015 · Mains means connected to the external utility network (electricity, gas, water, sewerage etc.). So in your example, a "mains" car would have to be connected to the wall permanently: the …
Is there a term for "mains power" in U.S. English?
Apr 12, 2011 · This insinuates that "mains" is not a U.S. term, and that the alternatives are all equally imprecise. Conclusion: Americans are likely to use "grid" as a synonym for "mains", which isn't …
Are both gasoline and mains gas called "gas" in the USA?
Dec 16, 2021 · So what if somebody is talking about their gas-stove while casually mentioning their car? I've called the gas company about these outrageous gas bills, oh, and Honey, will you please drive …
word choice - English Language & Usage Stack Exchange
Jan 10, 2015 · This length of pipe between the mains and the home is often called the supply line. In the US, the name for the connection between the mains and the supply line is known as the corporation …
"I ordered" vs. "I have ordered" [duplicate] - English Language & Usage ...
I think questions like this are better asked on English Language Learners. In my opinion, B is hopelessly stilted (native speakers tend to avoid complex tense forms where simpler ones will do). With a bit of …
What is the proper usage of "quite a few"?
Oct 15, 2010 · Quite a few expresses that the speaker was impressed or astonished by the number, as they would have expected less. Or the speaker wants to emphasize on the fact that it was "more …
Unusual words used to denote a specific length of time?
Sep 23, 2022 · I'm looking for unusual/uncommon words that refer to a period of time. Something like fortnight: (chiefly UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, dated in North America) A period …
what is the difference between 'all the time' and 'all time'
Feb 4, 2019 · All the time = constantly, or very frequently. The bird was calling all the time as we were trying to talk. Why do you telephone me all the time? All time = through all, or a long period, of …
differences - "Electronic" vs. "electric" - English Language & Usage ...
Jun 26, 2011 · An electrician can't just hook it up to the power mains. At some point along the complexity spectrum a device ceases to be merely electric and becomes electronic. Note: I think this also …