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Computable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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computable

[ˈkɒmpjʊtəbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Capable of being calculated or computed.

Synonyms

calculable, measurable, quantifiable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
computable

Used when talking about the ability to solve a problem using an algorithm or computational method. Often found in computer science and mathematics.

  • The function is computable within polynomial time.
  • Computable problems are of great interest in theoretical computer science.
calculable

Refers to something that can be determined or assessed using calculation. It doesn't exclusively involve computers and can be more general.

  • The risks associated with the investment are calculable.
  • His future earnings are not exactly calculable but can be estimated.
quantifiable

Applies when something can be expressed as a quantity or put into numerical terms. Often used in business, science, and data analysis.

  • The benefits of the new policy are not easily quantifiable.
  • Customer satisfaction can be quantifiable if proper metrics are used.
measurable

Used when something can be measured or quantified in terms of size, extent, or degree. More often used in everyday language and scientific contexts.

  • The results showed a measurable difference in performance.
  • Measurable improvements were noted after implementing the new strategy.

Examples of usage

  • Algorithms are used to make tasks computable.
  • Mathematical problems become computable with the use of appropriate tools.
  • The computable nature of the problem allows for efficient solutions to be found.
Context #2 | Adjective

computing

Able to be processed or dealt with using a computer.

Synonyms

algorithmic, calculable, processable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
computable

Used when talking about whether something can be calculated using a computer or arithmetic methods.

  • The problem is computable using standard methods
  • Some functions are not computable by any algorithm
processable

Used when discussing whether data or information can be processed, especially in terms of being handled by a computer system.

  • The data is easily processable by the new software
  • Large datasets must be converted into a processable format
calculable

Generally used when talking about something that can be measured or estimated, often not specifically related to computers.

  • The risk involved in this project is calculable
  • The impact of the new policy is calculable by looking at past data
algorithmic

Often used when referring to a step-by-step procedure or a set of rules used in calculations, especially in computer science.

  • He has an algorithmic approach to solving the puzzle
  • The algorithmic efficiency of this code is remarkable

Examples of usage

  • Data needs to be in a computable format for the software to analyze it.
  • The program converts the data into a computable form for further processing.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Computer Science

  • In computer science, a problem is considered computable if there exists an algorithm that can solve it within a finite amount of time.
  • Alan Turing introduced the concept of computability in the 1930s, laying the foundation for modern computer science.
  • Not all problems are computable; some are proven to be undecidable, meaning no algorithm can solve them.

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, computable functions are those where an algorithm can determine their value for any given input.
  • The concept plays a crucial role in understanding the limits of what can be calculated in mathematics.
  • Many problems in number theory and logic have been investigated to determine their computability.

Philosophy

  • The exploration of computability raises philosophical questions about the limits of human knowledge and machine capabilities.
  • Some philosophers argue that not all problems might be computable simply due to our understanding and definitions of computation.
  • The interplay between computability and consciousness poses intriguing discussions in philosophy of mind.

Pop Culture

  • Computability concepts feature in various sci-fi narratives, where machines can solve any problem or predict the future.
  • Movies like 'The Imitation Game' showcase the history behind computer scientists who contributed to our understanding of computability.
  • In video games, the idea of computable challenges often reflects puzzles that can be solved using logic and algorithms.

Origin of 'computable'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'computabilis', which means 'that can be counted or calculated'.
  • The root 'computare' means 'to count or calculate', linking the word to numerical processes.
  • The evolution of the term reflects advances in math and technology over centuries.

The term 'computable' originated in the field of mathematics, particularly in the context of computability theory and algorithms. It gained popularity with the advent of computers and digital technology, where the concept of being able to calculate or process information became essential. The word highlights the ability of mathematical problems or data to be manipulated and analyzed using computational methods, leading to advancements in various scientific and technological fields.

See also: computability, computation, computational, compute, computed, computer, computerize, computerizing, computing, miscompute.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,363, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.