Heuristic: meaning, definitions and examples

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heuristic

 

[ hjuˈrɪstɪk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

problem-solving

A heuristic is a practical method or approach used to problem-solving and decision-making that may not be perfect but is sufficient for reaching an immediate goal. It serves as a shortcut to finding solutions by simplifying complex processes and reducing the time and effort needed. Heuristics are widely applied in various fields, including psychology, computer science, and economics, to facilitate reasoning and judgment under uncertainty.

Synonyms

approach, rule of thumb, shortcut

Examples of usage

  • Using heuristics can speed up the decision-making process.
  • The heuristic method proved effective in solving the problem.
  • He developed a heuristic strategy to tackle the complex challenge.

Translations

Translations of the word "heuristic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 heurístico

🇮🇳 हेयुरिस्टिक

🇩🇪 heuristisch

🇮🇩 heuristik

🇺🇦 евристичний

🇵🇱 heurystyczny

🇯🇵 ヒューリスティック

🇫🇷 heuristique

🇪🇸 heurístico

🇹🇷 heüristik

🇰🇷 휴리스틱

🇸🇦 هجائي

🇨🇿 heuristický

🇸🇰 heuristický

🇨🇳 启发式

🇸🇮 heurističen

🇮🇸 heurískur

🇰🇿 эвристикалық

🇬🇪 ჰეურისტიკული

🇦🇿 heuristik

🇲🇽 heurístico

Etymology

The term 'heuristic' originates from the Greek word 'heuriskein', which means 'to find' or 'to discover'. This connection to discovery is significant, as heuristics aid individuals in navigating complex problems by enabling them to uncover practical solutions rather than exhaustively analyzing every possibility. The term gained prominence in the 20th century, particularly in psychology, where researchers studied how people make decisions and solve problems. Heuristic methods have become essential in artificial intelligence and computer science, as algorithms often utilize heuristic approaches to efficiently process data and solve computational problems. Overall, the evolution of heuristics reflects a growing understanding of human cognition and the necessity of efficient problem-solving techniques.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,126, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.