B2 adjective Formal

parameter

/pəˈræmɪtə(r)/

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 5
1

We need to stay within the parameters of the budget to avoid overspending.

We must remain inside the financial limits to prevent going over budget.

2

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.

3

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

Noun
parameter
Verb
parameterize
Adverb
parametrically
Adjective
parametric
Related
parametrization
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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

1

We need to stay within the parameters of the budget to avoid overspending.

everyday

We must remain inside the financial limits to prevent going over budget.

2

The legal parameters of the contract were strictly defined by the firm's attorneys.

formal

The lawful boundaries of the agreement were precisely outlined by the lawyers.

3

Can you explain the parameters of the game so I know how to play?

informal

Can you describe the rules and limits of the game so I understand the mechanics?

4

The researchers adjusted the physical parameters of the experiment to ensure accuracy.

academic

The scientists changed the specific physical conditions of the test to guarantee precise results.

5

The project manager set the parameters for the new marketing campaign.

business

The person in charge established the guidelines and scope for the new promotional drive.

Word Family

Noun
parameter
Verb
parameterize
Adverb
parametrically
Adjective
parametric
Related
parametrization

Common Collocations

set parameters establish boundaries or limits
within the parameters inside the specified rules or limits
define parameters to state clearly what the limits are
narrow parameters strict or limited boundaries
operating parameters the conditions under which a system works

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

parameter vs perimeter

A perimeter is the physical outer edge or boundary of an area, while a parameter is a symbolic limit or a variable factor.

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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.

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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

Countable noun, usually plural Often followed by the preposition 'of' Used with verbs like 'set', 'define', or 'establish'
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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 Words

syntegment

C1

To integrate or fuse distinct segments or components into a single, unified structure or cohesive system. It is often used in technical, architectural, or abstract contexts to describe the seamless blending of parts into a whole.

exsimilment

C1

Exsimilment is an adjective describing something that has diverged so fundamentally from its original source or peer group that it no longer possesses any shared characteristics. It is frequently used in technical and comparative contexts to denote a state of complete and intentional dissimilarity.

foreautofy

C1

Describing a system, process, or device that has been autonomously optimized or configured in advance to handle future scenarios. It implies a state of being pre-emptively automated to function seamlessly without human intervention when specific conditions are met.

insedess

C1

Describing a state of remaining in one location or maintaining an inactive, sedentary posture. It is often used in technical or formal contexts to characterize organisms, habits, or lifestyles that lack movement or migration.

interpunctive

C1

Relating to the marks or signs used in punctuation to separate sentences and their elements. It describes the structural use of points or symbols to clarify the meaning and rhythm of a written text.

comloquward

C1

Describes a person who is excessively talkative in a socially clumsy or uncoordinated manner. It specifically refers to the combination of being verbose while simultaneously lacking the grace to navigate conversational cues effectively.

circumjurent

C1

A person who takes a legal oath within a specific surrounding territory or boundary, often to verify land limits or local facts. In an archaic or specialized legal context, it refers to a witness who confirms the truth of a matter based on their presence in the surrounding area.

comvester

C1

A comvester is an individual who participates in community-based investment, pooling financial resources with others to support local projects or social enterprises. This role combines traditional investment goals with a focus on social impact and collective community benefit.

antitractent

C1

Describing a force or substance that exerts a repelling influence, tending to push away rather than attract. It is primarily used in technical or scientific contexts to describe physical properties or behaviors that resist being drawn together.

triludary

C1

To engage in a complex tripartite evaluation or negotiation process involving three distinct parties, stages, or perspectives. It is used to describe the act of reaching a balanced resolution or synthesis through three-way interaction.

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