Navigating Language and Terminology in Automatic Control Literature

Much of our understanding of automatic control relies on descriptions and words. While rooted in mathematical theory, control is generally explained using examples and abstraction. Different terminology is used in different textbooks which can lead to inadvertent miscommunication. Here, the terminology introduced in the most frequently used textbooks is collated. The paper addresses lecturers, students and industrial practitioners alike, who need to communicate, not only for understanding but also when building control systems. The focus is on English terminology of the single control loop and the PID controller. A section is dedicated to the Swedish and German language, highlighting helpful as well as obstructive vocabulary. This article provides an overview to raise awareness and to serve as a basis for discussion. It is not intended to be a complete list of words that should or should not be used.