Technology / B2

ALG-uh-rith-uh-m/ˈælɡərɪðəm/

An algorithm is a set of rules a computer (or a process) follows to complete a task: a search algorithm, a sorting algorithm. Formula is close but often mathematical; recipe is the everyday metaphor. In tech talk it is standard; in ordinary speech, the programme’s rules or how the site decides is clearer. Do not use it as a vague villain for “the internet” unless you mean a specific procedure.

Meaning

A set of rules a computer follows to solve a problem or complete a task.

Examples

• “The search engine uses a complex algorithm.”
• “The algorithm ranks posts by how long people stay on them.”
• “She wrote a simple algorithm to shuffle the revision cards.”

Good to know

A step-by-step rule, usually for a computer. Everyday: the site’s rules / a procedure. Close: formula (maths).

Near in meaning

procedure

Topics

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