American English
/ˈsɪs.tm̩/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
A group of connected parts, people, or processes that work together for a purpose.
In natural speech, the vowel in the second syllable of “system” can be very short and hard to hear. Say it with a short, clear vowel when you say the word by itself.
A group of connected parts, people, or processes that work together for a purpose.
The solar system includes the Sun and eight planets.
The nervous system sends signals through the body.
transportation system · nervous system · solar system · health-care system
a system of + plural noun
the + adjective + system
An organized way of doing something, usually with rules or steps.
I use a system for organizing my bills.
She developed a simple system to track her expenses.
filing system · payment system · rating system · booking system
a system for + gerund
use a system to + verb
A group of computer programs and equipment that work together.
Your computer system needs an update.
The hospital's information system is down.
computer system · system update · system error · information system
the system + verb
a system that + verb
The government, laws, and institutions that organize a society, especially when people feel they are unfair or difficult to change.
Many people feel that the system favors the rich.
He wants to change the political system.
political system · legal system · economic system · education system
the + adjective + system
change the + adjective + system
The main software that controls a computer's basic functions.
My laptop runs a new operating system.
To find a way around rules or institutions, often to gain an advantage.
They found a legal way to beat the system.
To try to make changes by using existing rules and institutions.
She prefers to work within the system.