self-propelled

IPA/ˌself.prəˈpeld/
IPA/ˌself.prəˈpeld/

self-propelled — adjective

1. designed to move by itself using its own engine or motor, without needing to be

1.形容詞B2
釋義

designed to move by itself using its own engine or motor, without needing to be pushed or pulled by another vehicle or person

例句

The self-propelled lawnmower turned itself around when it reached the edge of the garden.

attributive: describes equipment with its own motor

Because his wheelchair is self-propelled, Nikhil can move through the house without calling for help.

同義詞
  • motorized

    emphasises the presence of an engine or motor; less specific about self-movement — a motorized wheelchair may still need someone to steer it

  • powered

    broader term — can refer to any energy source (battery, fuel) without specifying autonomous movement

  • self-driven

    less common; overlaps in meaning but often used in abstract or metaphorical contexts

  • automotive

    formal term restricted to road vehicles

反義詞
  • towed

    requires being pulled by another vehicle

  • pushed

    requires external force, usually from a person or animal

  • manual

    operated by human effort rather than its own motor

用法筆記

Typically used for vehicles, machines, and equipment that carry their own power source. The hyphenated compound is standard in both attributive (a self-propelled vehicle) and predicative (the vehicle is self-propelled) positions.

常見錯誤

❌A self-propelled vacuum cleaner can decide which rooms to clean.
✅A robotic vacuum cleaner can decide which rooms to clean.
💡self-propelled only means it moves under its own power, not that it has decision-making ability.
❌The horse is self-propelled.
✅The horse moves on its own.
💡self-propelled is used for machines and vehicles, not living creatures.