Mechanical technical English in the competitive contemporary world

The mechanical technical english has gained importance on an increasingly globalized world stage. The growing mobility of the population, the opportunities for commercial exchanges and the possibility of working in other countries are factors that invite mechanics from all areas to take on new challenges.

Is the scenario described familiar to you? If you are a mechanic and you aspire to have a successful career, this article is for you: we discuss the benefits of mastering mechanical technical English, what level you need, we give you some tips to reinforce your learning of the language and finally we present you with a brief glossary of basic terms that can be very useful.

What is mechanical technical English?

Mastery of the English language requires that those who speak it appropriate the terms and expressions of the specific area in which they operate. Of course, the mechanical technical sector is no exception.

At this point it is important to clarify that the grammar of English is always the same; so when we talk about mechanical technical English we are referring to the same language that we use to communicate on a daily basis, but with the addition of the terms of the mechanical area.

It is worth noting that when talking about the mechanical sector, a wide spectrum is covered: automotive, aeronautical, industrial, electromechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic... Of course, each of these areas has its precise vocabulary and its own expressions. 

Consequently, whoever aspires to manage with ease the technical English of your specific sector, you must previously have a basic knowledge of the language at all levels: speaking, listening, reading and writing. Only then will you be able to incorporate the specific terms and use them properly in each communicative context.

There are some characteristics that define mechanical technical English, in all areas:

• It is concrete and impersonal.
• Construct short and precise sentences.
• Constructions in the passive voice abound, to emphasize attention on the most important element of the sentence.
• It has its own vocabulary and a series of grammatical constructions that are specific to it.
• It is intended to reflect objectivity.
• There is a pre-eminence of the verb to be.

Benefits of achieving a good level of English to work as a mechanic

These are some of the multiple benefits that, as a professional mechanic, you obtain when you are bilingual:

1. You can always be updated

Most of the relevant technical publications are in English; consequently, when handling an appropriate level of English you can read articles in specialized magazines, watch online tutorials, or attend industry events in English-speaking countries.

2. You will participate actively and fluently in your company's work meetings

If you want to stand out in your company, you must Active participation in work meetings and express their points of view with linguistic correctness. The management of the themes and concepts of the jargon of mechanics, whatever the specific field in which you work, will allow you to stand out.

3. You can work as a freelancer

In the mechanical sector, hiring independent workers is frequent. If you can communicate fluently with your potential customers, you will have a distinct competitive advantage.

4. You can study abroad

Mechanics are always at the forefront of technology, so it is necessary to continuously prepare so as not to be left behind. If you want to take mechanic courses abroad, you need to know English.

What level of mechanical technical English do you need to work in the sector?

A professional mechanic must be able to provide good service and be able to communicate well with customers: ask about the fault presented by the vehicle, describe situations or processes, propose solutions to the problem that arises, know the technical language to call the equipment, tools and parts by their name.

On the other hand, large international companies require that everyone who is hired speak English. Academic credentials are no longer enough, but it is also essential to demonstrate that you have a good written and oral level in this language.

But how do you determine if you have the level of technical mechanical English necessary to qualify for the job of your dreams? Let's look at it this way: if you have a large vocabulary, know the specific expressions of the world of mechanics and can also communicate fluently orally and in writing, then you have the necessary level to apply for the position and to develop an outstanding professional career.

Now, you have to keep in mind that it's not just about memorizing a handful of mechanic-specific terms. You must first have English language training that allows you:

• Listen and understand what they tell you.
• Speak and express their ideas in an organized and grammatically correct way.
• Read and understand technical texts.
• Write reports, reports and other documents with correction.

One of the most difficult aspects usually represents is to have a high level of communication, especially oral. It is important, then, to give priority to the conversation. 

Some tips to effectively learn English in the mechanical sector

It does not matter if you are just starting out in your profession or if you already have a consolidated career; the technical English mechanic will allow you to function successfully either in a work or academic environment. Here are some tips that will be very useful if you want to expand and enhance your level of English.

start at the beginning

Before learning the words and expressions of the world of mechanics, you must have a base in the language; take a course that allows you to learn a bit of grammar and vocabulary, as well as develop your listening comprehension and pronunciation. 

Choose a course that suits your needs

If you have an intermediate or advanced level of English, the ideal is that the classes you take are adapted to your personal requirements. Be sure to choose an institute that gives you the precise content, tools and exercises to enhance the level you already have and acquire the skills you require; for example, practice in hypothetical situations the use of vocabulary and expressions from their professional area.

Read specialized texts

This will allow you to acquire new knowledge and a larger vocabulary; also, if you read aloud you will be improving your pronunciation. Whether it is books, blogs or specialized magazines, you will see how there are a number of words that are repeated.

Take note of these terms, review their meaning and try to incorporate them into your English practices or situations in your work or academic life.

use the dictionary

Get in the habit of researching the meaning of words you don't know. In online dictionaries you can even have the pronunciation of the words you consult. Create your own glossary of mechanical terms so you can quickly find their meaning in case you forget it.

practice what you learn

Whether it's with your English teacher, a co-worker or a classmate, talk regularly about articles, tutorials, etc. In this way it is easier to fix the meaning and pronunciation of the words.

Watch tutorials, interviews and programs in English

Become a regular in the videos in English related to your profession. Without realizing it, he will begin to think in English and this will be of great help when he goes to speak with his co-workers or his clients. In addition, it will keep you updated.

Brief glossary of basic English technical mechanical-Spanish terms for the automotive sector

• ABS Speed Sensor: ABS speed sensor

• Adjustable spanner: wrench

• air cleaner: air filter

• barrel: cylinder

• bearing: bearing

• bodywork: bodywork

• bumper: bumper

• caliber: caliber

• capacitor: capacitor

• clutch: clutch

• coil: coil

• Diaphragm Unit: Diaphragm

• exhaust: exhaust

• Fault Diagnosis: fault diagnosis

• Grease Nipple: greaser

• grill: grill

• Headlamp lens: headlight glass

• Headlining: lining

• Hose: hose, tube

• Ignition: on

• inch: inch

• Insulated wire: insulated wire

• Journals: pins, stumps

• King Pin: kingpin

• Unleaded fuel: unleaded gasoline

• Link: tie rod

• Lug bolt: wheel bolt

• Mesh in: mesh

• Misalignment: misalignment

• muffler: muffler

• nut: nut

• nozzle: injector

• oil change: oil change

• Overhaul: Review

• pinion: pinion

• Platinum points: platinums

• pliers: pliers

• Rack: zipper

• Retaining screw: retaining screw

• Roll: rolling

• screwdriver: screwdriver

• Slot: spring, slot

• Swivel: swivel joint

• Test Lamp: test lamp

• Underinflation: low inflation

• Valve cover: valve cover

• washer: washer

• Wheel Bearings: wheel bearings, bearings

• X-frame: frame in X
  
  

In all the areas it covers, mechanics is a widely sought-after profession around the world. For this reason, many professionals in this area aspire to find a good job opportunity in a foreign country, or establish commercial exchanges with individuals or companies from other countries.

In any case, you need to be fluent in English as well as solid training in the area of specialization: your communication skills will allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and professional quality.

If there is currently a need to acquire or perfect your mechanical technical English with classes that fit your work schedules, English2Go is the answer: we offer you online classes adjusted to your level of English and your specific communication needs so that you reach the level you require in a short time.

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English Guide for Foreign Trade

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