On-off

Referring to a state or mechanism that alternates between being active or inactive, functional or non-functional, or present or absent. This binary characteristic is prevalent in electronics, software, and various control systems, symbolizing a simple, fundamental operation. 'On' signifies operation or availability, while 'off' denotes the opposite. The term can describe the physical action of switching something between states, or the metaphorical toggling between conditions or behaviors. It often implies a clear demarcation between the two states with minimal grey area or ambiguity.

On-off meaning with examples

• The old light switch had a satisfying 'on-off' click, a physical reassurance of its function. I flipped the switch, bringing the room from darkness to light. His mood swings were dramatic, like an 'on-off' switch – jovial one moment, withdrawn the next. A faulty connection was causing an intermittent 'on-off' failure with the machine, disrupting its operation.
• The automated irrigation system operates on an 'on-off' cycle, watering the lawn at scheduled intervals and then turning off. Software often uses 'on-off' flags or booleans to control the functionality of features. The simple 'on-off' interface of the device made it user-friendly. The city implemented an 'on-off' restriction on water usage during the drought.
• The radio's volume knob didn't have a gradual adjustment; it was more of an 'on-off' type, either loud or silent. This meant a lack of in between settings. Many energy efficient appliances are in the market now, but have 'on-off' setting features rather than other more specific features.
• After the power outage, the building’s emergency lights switched 'on-off' repeatedly before finally staying on. The control panel's 'on-off' button allowed you to control the functionality of the system easily. There are different versions in this version that are an 'on-off' set up to function.
• The algorithm uses an 'on-off' method for certain calculations and has a very fast output. After the presentation, there was a quick 'on-off' conversation of praise and discussion of the presentation. The child’s attention span was very 'on-off', it would constantly switch between the game and the TV.