Automatic vs. automated: what’s the difference?
The short answer
The word automatic often describes something that operates independently by virtue of its design, whereas automated often implies that a process has been converted from a manual to a machine-driven operation.
What they have in common
Both words relate to the concept of a process or operation being carried out with little to no human intervention.
Examples
automatic
- The automatic door opened as we approached.
- He has an automatic response to that question.
- The car comes with an automatic transmission.
automated
- The factory uses automated machines to assemble the products.
- Their automated system sends out reminders for appointments.
- We implemented an automated process for handling requests.
Which one is more common?
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