Code: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to the written instructions that a computer can execute. Commonly used by software developers and programmers when they write or review programs.

• I need to refactor this code to improve its performance.
• The code base for this project is quite large.

Refers to the overall activity or process of writing and maintaining the source code. Used in educational contexts, job descriptions, and hobby or professional activities.

• Programming requires not only writing code but also testing and debugging it.
• She is learning Python programming.

Used to refer to a short program written for a specific task, often written in scripting languages like Python, JavaScript, or Bash. It may imply a task-specific or temporary nature.

• I wrote a script to automate the backup process.
• This script will extract data from the database and generate a report.

Typically used in the context of computer science and mathematics to describe a set of rules or steps to solve a problem or perform a task. Often discussed in theoretical contexts or when focusing on the logic behind the operations.

• We need a more efficient algorithm to sort this data.
• He studied the algorithm needed to solve the Rubik's Cube.

General term for writing instructions for computers. Used in both casual and professional settings. Suitable for referring to a collection of lines that make up a computer program.

• She spent the entire weekend writing code for her project.
• You need to check your code for errors before running it.

Refers to a complete and functional software application. Also used as a verb meaning to write code. Used both casually and professionally.

• She created a program to automate her tasks.
• I learned how to program in Python.

Usually refers to a smaller, often simpler piece of code that automates tasks. Frequently used in the context of web development or system administration. Can sometimes imply something non-complex.

• He wrote a script to back up his files every day.
• You can use a script to automate this process.

Broader context involving the entire process of creating software, from planning to coding to testing. Used more formally.

• He works for a company that develops mobile apps.
• We need to develop a new feature for our website.