parameter
A parameter is a limit or boundary that defines the scope of a particular process, system, or activity. In technical or mathematical contexts, it refers to a measurable factor that sets the conditions of an operation.
Examples
3 of 5We need to stay within the parameters of the budget to avoid overspending.
We must remain inside the financial limits to prevent going over budget.
The legal parameters of the contract were strictly defined by the firm's attorneys.
The lawful boundaries of the agreement were precisely outlined by the lawyers.
Can you explain the parameters of the game so I know how to play?
Can you describe the rules and limits of the game so I understand the mechanics?
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'meter' in parameter as a 'measurement' and 'para' as 'beside'. It's the measurement that sits beside a project to tell you where the edges are.
Quick Quiz
The computer program failed because the input data was outside the ______ established by the developers.
Correct!
The correct answer is: parameters
Examples
We need to stay within the parameters of the budget to avoid overspending.
everydayWe must remain inside the financial limits to prevent going over budget.
The legal parameters of the contract were strictly defined by the firm's attorneys.
formalThe lawful boundaries of the agreement were precisely outlined by the lawyers.
Can you explain the parameters of the game so I know how to play?
informalCan you describe the rules and limits of the game so I understand the mechanics?
The researchers adjusted the physical parameters of the experiment to ensure accuracy.
academicThe scientists changed the specific physical conditions of the test to guarantee precise results.
The project manager set the parameters for the new marketing campaign.
businessThe person in charge established the guidelines and scope for the new promotional drive.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
within the parameters of the law
obeying the legal boundaries
defining parameters
the most important characteristics or limits
broad parameters
loose or wide-ranging guidelines
Often Confused With
A perimeter is the physical outer edge or boundary of an area, while a parameter is a symbolic limit or a variable factor.
Usage Notes
Parameter is most commonly used in technical, scientific, or business contexts to describe the 'rules' or 'limits' of a situation. It is almost always used in its plural form (parameters) when referring to general guidelines.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'parameter' when they mean 'perimeter' (physical distance around a shape). Additionally, avoid using it simply as a fancy word for 'feature'; it should specifically imply a limit or a defining variable.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'meter' in parameter as a 'measurement' and 'para' as 'beside'. It's the measurement that sits beside a project to tell you where the edges are.
Word Origin
Derived from the Greek 'para' (beside) and 'metron' (measure), originally used in geometry.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In the modern tech-driven corporate world, 'defining the parameters' is a standard way of beginning a project or negotiation.
Quick Quiz
The computer program failed because the input data was outside the ______ established by the developers.
Correct!
The correct answer is: parameters
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
A constraint is a rule or condition that limits what you can...
requirementA thing that is needed or wanted; a condition that must be m...
variableA variable is an element, feature, or factor that is liable...
dimensionA dimension refers to a measurable extent of a particular ki...
scopeTo assess or investigate something carefully in order to und...
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