ADJ

firing, locking, steering, trigger, winding

MECHANISM + VERB

operate, work
The door locking mechanism doesn't work
jam

ADJ

effective, precise
an effective mechanism for enforcing the rules
underlying
complex
social

VERB + MECHANISM

provide
The system provides a mechanism whereby information is channelled into the market

MECHANISM + VERB

operate, work
allow sth, ensure sth

PREP

by/through the ~ of
The government is held accountable through the mechanism of regular general elections
~ for
a mechanism for dealing with complaints

ADJ

avoidance, control, defence, escape, survival
The body has defence mechanisms against many diseases
cellular, genetic, immunological, molecular, neural, physiological, psychological, etc.

PREP

~ for