In ASD-STE100, words are controlled. You use approved words from the STE dictionary, with their approved meaning and part of speech. You can also use technical names and technical verbs from your field, if they fit the permitted categories. The goal is that each word has one meaning for every reader.
Use approved words
- An approved word is a word that the ASD-STE100 dictionary allows. Most approved words are short, common English words.
- When a word is not approved, the dictionary usually gives an approved alternative. Use the alternative. Do not look for a synonym that "sounds better".
- Read more in our dictionary guide.
One word, one meaning
- Many English words have several meanings. In STE, an approved word has one approved meaning.
- Use the word only with that meaning. If you need a different meaning, use a different approved word.
- This is important for translation. A translator or a translation tool can then translate the word the same way each time.
Use the approved part of speech
- A word can be approved as a noun but not as a verb, or the opposite.
- Do not change the part of speech of an approved word. If the dictionary approves "test" as a noun, you cannot automatically use it as a verb.
Technical names and technical verbs
- A technical name identifies a specific thing in your field: a part, a tool, a material, a location. "Torque wrench" and "circuit breaker" are technical names.
- A technical verb is a verb with a specific technical meaning, for example a machining process.
- STE lists categories of technical names and technical verbs. Use them only when they fit a category, and only when no approved word gives the same meaning.
Be consistent
- Use the same word for the same thing in the whole document. If you write "panel" in step 1, do not write "cover" in step 5 for the same part.
- Use the names from your official sources: drawings, parts catalogues, the equipment labels.
- Keep a terminology list for each project.