Words / C1

di-VYZ/dɪˈvaɪz/

To devise is to invent a method or plan with care: devise a rota, devise a test. Invent and work out are everyday; device (already in the dictionary) is a thing — same family, different word and pronunciation (/dɪˈvaɪz/ vs /dɪˈvaɪs/). Design is close for objects. Do not write devise a phone when you mean design or make.

Meaning

To invent a method, plan, or system, usually with care.

Examples

• “They devised a rota that covered nights without overtime.”
• “They devised a marking grid that two teachers could share without a meeting.”
• “A device is a gadget; to devise is to think the method up.”

Good to know

Invent a plan/method. Mix-up: device (a thing; /dɪˈvaɪs/). Everyday: work out. Not “devise a gadget” for manufacture.

Near in meaning

invent

New