In this post, we cover how to write an non-human character. Do you want to know more? Read on to learn how to describe a robot in a story.
1. Mechanical
Definition
Automated, robotic; relating to machines or their parts.
Examples
“The arms of the mechanical robot moved with precision.”
“The mechanical hum of the robot filled the small room, putting everyone on edge.”
How it Adds Description
The word “mechanical” indicates that the robot is composed of physical parts such as gears, motors, and other machinery. This illustrates that it is not alive in the traditional sense but is, instead, a machine built by humans. It highlights the limitations and vulnerabilities of the robot, setting the scene for it to malfunction, be dismantled, or be destroyed by humans or other robots.
2. Autonomous
Definition
Self-governing, independent; able to function without human control.
Examples
“The autonomous robot roamed the abandoned factory on its own, performing its tasks.”
“The robot was autonomous, guiding itself to its destination without further instruction.”
How it Adds Description
The word “autonomous” indicates that the robot can make decisions and perform tasks on its own. This can introduce conflicts and resolutions in a story. For instance, if the robot malfunctions or is hacked, it might lead to chaos or danger. It might also set the robot up as a valuable asset that characters must protect to be sure it remains operational to achieve its goals.
3. Programmable
Definition
Configurable, adjustable; able to be customized to perform certain tasks or behaviors.
Examples
“The programmable robot was designed to assemble cars on an assembly line and nothing else.”
“The robot was programmable, allowing users to set it to perform specific tasks.”
How it Adds Description
The word “programmable” implies that the robot can be set to perform different functions, depending on the needs of the user. The fact that the robot is programmable may play a significant role in the story such as in a case where a character needs it to perform a specific task to achieve a goal or an outside entity hacks into it to create chaos, disruption, or ruin.
4. Inhuman
Definition
Non-human, alien; lacking human qualities or characteristics.
Examples
“The robot’s inhuman eyes glowed in the darkness like a sinister-looking demon.”
“The robot’s strength was inhuman, allowing it to easily overpower the human soldiers.”
How it Adds Description
The word “inhuman” can be used to create a contrast between the robot and the human characters, highlighting its mechanical or artificial nature. It can relay a sense of danger, as the robot may behave in unpredictable or even malevolent ways due to its lack of humanity, foreshadowing potential dangers or consequences of the robot’s actions.
5. Futuristic
Definition
Ultra-modern, advanced; characteristic of the future.
Examples
“The futuristic robot was designed with sleek lines and high-tech materials.”
“The space-age city was filled with futuristic robots and flying cars.”
How it Adds Description
The word “futuristic” indicates advanced capabilities or features that are ahead of their time. This description could include futuristic designs, technologies, and functions that are not currently available. It can be used to create anticipation regarding what the robot is capable of doing or as an indication of the period in which the story is set.
6. Emotionless
Definition
Unfeeling, indifferent; lacking emotion.
Examples
“The emotionless robot carried out its mission without hesitation or concern.”
“The gaze of the robot was emotionless and made the time travelers uneasy.”
How it Adds Description
The word “emotionless” illustrates that the robot cannot experience emotions or feelings, making it a vastly different type of being from a human. It can serve to highlight the potential dangers of relying on machines for tasks that require empathy and emotional intelligence, setting the stage for potential conflicts and crises that drive the narrative forward.
7. Alien
Definition
Extraterrestrial, foreign; belonging to a different place or culture.
Examples
“The alien robot landed on Earth and began exploring the new terrain.”
“The humans were fascinated by the alien technology behind the robot’s design.”
How it Adds Description
Using the word “alien” can add an element of mystery and intrigue to a story. It suggests that the robot is not of this world, and may have abilities or characteristics that are beyond human understanding. This description can also create a sense of danger or threat, as the robot may be seen as unpredictable or hostile due to its alien origins.
8. Augmented
Definition
Enhanced, improved; having additional capabilities beyond its original design.
Examples
“The augmented robot was equipped with advanced sensors for detecting obstacles.”
“The humans were amazed by the robot’s augmented reality capabilities.”
How it Adds Description
The word “augmented” conveys the idea that the robot may have been altered to possess enhanced strength, intelligence, or sensory capabilities that make it a formidable ally or opponent. This could create opportunities for conflict, intrigue, or unexpected plot twists as the characters interact with the robot and its unique abilities.
9. Sentient
Definition
Conscious, self-aware; able to perceive and respond to the surrounding environment.
Examples
“The sentient robot was able to learn from its experiences and adapt to new situations.”
“The humans were amazed by the robot’s sentient qualities, which made it seem almost alive.”
How it Adds Description
The word “sentient” suggests that the robot is not just a programmed tool, but rather a being capable of experiencing emotions and thoughts. It can present the possibility of a conflict between the sentient robot and the other characters in the story, who may not view it as equal or deserving of the same rights as a human.
10. Menacing
Definition
Threatening, intimidating; suggesting the presence of danger or harm.
Examples
“The robot’s glowing eyes were purposely designed to appear menacing to keep people at a distance.”
“The citizens were afraid of the menacing robot that patrolled the streets, unsure of what it was capable of.”
How it Adds Description
The word “menacing” implies that the robot may have harmful intentions and that it could potentially cause harm to the characters in the story. They may be driven to overcome the robot or seek a way to escape its grasp, building a sense of danger and urgency in the story that furthers the plot along and engages readers.