single-function device

[ˈsɪŋɡəl ˈfʌŋkʃən dɪˈvaɪs]
nounpl: single-function devices
dispositivo de função única
1. An electronic or mechanical device designed to perform only one specific task or function
A microwave oven is a single-function device that heats food.
Um forno de micro-ondas é um dispositivo de função única que aquece alimentos.
2. Equipment that lacks versatility and cannot be repurposed for multiple tasks
Unlike smartphones, a dedicated calculator is a single-function device.
Diferentemente dos smartphones, uma calculadora dedicada é um dispositivo de função única.
This term is increasingly relevant in both Brazilian and American contexts as consumers debate whether specialized devices (like dedicated e-readers or smartwatches) remain viable against multi-function smartphones. In Brazil, the term is commonly used in technology reviews and consumer electronics discussions.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
dedicated devicesingle-purpose devicespecialized devicemonofunctional device
Antonyms / Antônimos
multi-function devicemultifunctional deviceall-in-one deviceversatile device

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
dispositivo de função única
Standard term used in technical and commercial contexts
Portugal
dispositivo de função única
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; technical term
São Paulo
aparelho de função única
Alternative informal usage; 'aparelho' is more colloquial
Rio de Janeiro
equipamento monofuncional
More formal/technical variant occasionally used

Related Words

multi-function devicesmart deviceIoT deviceapplianceelectronic equipmentfunctionality

Related Idioms & Phrases

jack of all trades, master of none (opposite concept)
one-trick pony (colloquial equivalent)
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