B2 verb Neutral

algorithm

/ˈælɡəˌrɪðəm/

An algorithm is a set of step-by-step instructions or rules followed by a computer or system to solve a problem or perform a calculation. While often associated with technology, it can describe any logical sequence of actions taken to achieve a specific result.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The social media algorithm determines which posts you see based on your interests.

The social media algorithm determines which posts you see based on your interests.

2

The researchers developed a sophisticated algorithm to analyze the climate data.

The researchers developed a sophisticated algorithm to analyze the climate data.

3

I think the algorithm is broken because I keep getting weird ads.

I think the algorithm is broken because I keep getting weird ads.

Word Family

Noun
algorithm
Verb
algorithmize
Adverb
algorithmically
Adjective
algorithmic
Related
algorithmist
💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'Al Gore' (Algorithm) dancing to a 'Rhythm' (a repeating, predictable pattern of steps).

Quick Quiz

The computer programmer wrote a new ____ to speed up the data processing time.

Correct!

The correct answer is: algorithm

Examples

1

The social media algorithm determines which posts you see based on your interests.

everyday

The social media algorithm determines which posts you see based on your interests.

2

The researchers developed a sophisticated algorithm to analyze the climate data.

formal

The researchers developed a sophisticated algorithm to analyze the climate data.

3

I think the algorithm is broken because I keep getting weird ads.

informal

I think the algorithm is broken because I keep getting weird ads.

4

The efficiency of a sorting algorithm is measured by its time complexity.

academic

The efficiency of a sorting algorithm is measured by its time complexity.

5

Our marketing team uses a predictive algorithm to identify potential customers.

business

Our marketing team uses a predictive algorithm to identify potential customers.

Word Family

Noun
algorithm
Verb
algorithmize
Adverb
algorithmically
Adjective
algorithmic
Related
algorithmist

Common Collocations

search algorithm search algorithm
complex algorithm complex algorithm
genetic algorithm genetic algorithm
run an algorithm run an algorithm
recommendation algorithm recommendation algorithm

Common Phrases

algorithmic bias

algorithmic bias

the algorithm

the algorithm (often referring to social media feeds)

sorting algorithm

sorting algorithm

Often Confused With

algorithm vs logarithm

A logarithm is a mathematical exponent concept (e.g., base 10), whereas an algorithm is a step-by-step procedure.

algorithm vs heuristic

A heuristic is a 'rule of thumb' or practical shortcut that might not be perfect, while an algorithm is a rigid, guaranteed process.

📝

Usage Notes

In modern conversation, people often say 'the algorithm' to refer to the invisible force that controls content on apps like TikTok or Instagram. It is typically used as a countable noun.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often misspell the word as 'algorythm' (replacing the 'i' with a 'y') or confuse it with the math term 'logarithm'.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'Al Gore' (Algorithm) dancing to a 'Rhythm' (a repeating, predictable pattern of steps).

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Latinized name of the 9th-century Persian mathematician Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi.

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun: an algorithm, several algorithms Commonly used with verbs like 'develop', 'implement', or 'execute'
🌍

Cultural Context

In the digital age, 'the algorithm' is sometimes personified as a modern-day deity that decides which creators become famous or which news stories go viral.

Quick Quiz

The computer programmer wrote a new ____ to speed up the data processing time.

Correct!

The correct answer is: algorithm

Related Words

sit

A1

To rest your body on your bottom with your back upright, typically on a chair or the floor. It describes both the action of moving into this position and the state of being in it.

stand

A1

To be in an upright position supported by one's feet rather than sitting or lying down. It also refers to the physical location of an object or a person's particular opinion on a subject.

pay

A1

To give money to someone in exchange for goods, services, or to settle a debt. It can also mean to give something non-monetary, such as attention or a compliment.

meet

A1

To come together with someone at a specific place and time, or to be introduced to someone for the first time. It can also mean to satisfy a requirement, standard, or need.

continue

A1

To keep doing something or to stay in the same state without stopping. It can also mean to start an activity again after a short break.

set

A1

To put or place something in a specific position or location. It also means to adjust or prepare something so that it is ready for use, such as a clock or a table.

learn

A1

To gain knowledge, understanding, or a skill by studying, practicing, or being taught. It refers to the process of acquiring information through experience or education.

lead

A1

To go in front of a group of people to show them the way to a place. It also means to be in control of a group, a team, or an activity.

understand

A1

To know the meaning of what someone is saying or how something works. It involves grasping an idea, a language, or a situation clearly in your mind.

follow

A1

To move behind someone or something in the same direction. It also means to obey rules, instructions, or to understand the logic of an argument or story.

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