RAM
RAM, or Random Access Memory, refers to a computer's short-term memory where data is stored for immediate use by the processor. It allows a device to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and affects the speed at which programs run, but its contents are lost when the device is powered off.
Examples
3 of 5I need to close some browser tabs because they are using up all my RAM.
I need to close some browser tabs because they are using up all my RAM.
The workstation is equipped with 64GB of RAM to support high-end video editing software.
The workstation is equipped with 64GB of RAM to support high-end video editing software.
My old laptop is so slow; it definitely needs a RAM boost.
My old laptop is so slow; it definitely needs a RAM boost.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of RAM as the surface of your desk: the larger the desk (more RAM), the more papers you can have open and work on at once. Your filing cabinet is the hard drive (storage).
Quick Quiz
If your computer is lagging while you are multitasking, you likely need more ________.
Correct!
The correct answer is: RAM
Examples
I need to close some browser tabs because they are using up all my RAM.
everydayI need to close some browser tabs because they are using up all my RAM.
The workstation is equipped with 64GB of RAM to support high-end video editing software.
formalThe workstation is equipped with 64GB of RAM to support high-end video editing software.
My old laptop is so slow; it definitely needs a RAM boost.
informalMy old laptop is so slow; it definitely needs a RAM boost.
Research suggests that increasing system RAM can decrease the execution time of complex algorithms.
academicResearch suggests that increasing system RAM can decrease the execution time of complex algorithms.
The technical requirements for the new CRM software include a minimum of 8GB of RAM per terminal.
businessThe technical requirements for the new CRM software include a minimum of 8GB of RAM per terminal.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
upgrade the RAM
to replace or add memory modules
clear the RAM
to free up memory by closing programs
eat up RAM
to consume a large portion of the memory
Often Confused With
RAM is temporary and fast for current tasks, while storage (like an SSD) is permanent for saving files.
ROM is 'Read-Only Memory' and is permanent, whereas RAM can be written to and is erased when power is lost.
Usage Notes
RAM is typically used as an uncountable noun when referring to the capacity (e.g., 'more RAM'), but can be treated as a countable noun when referring to physical modules ('two sticks of RAM'). It is almost always written in all capital letters as it is an acronym.
Common Mistakes
Learners often think that adding more RAM will increase their storage space for photos and files, which is incorrect; it only helps with speed and multitasking.
Memory Tip
Think of RAM as the surface of your desk: the larger the desk (more RAM), the more papers you can have open and work on at once. Your filing cabinet is the hard drive (storage).
Word Origin
An acronym for 'Random Access Memory,' first coined in the 1960s to describe memory that can be accessed in any order.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In tech and gaming culture, the amount of RAM a person has is often a point of pride and a key metric for device performance.
Quick Quiz
If your computer is lagging while you are multitasking, you likely need more ________.
Correct!
The correct answer is: RAM
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