Programming: meaning, definitions and examples

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programming

 

[ ˈprəʊɡræmɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

computer

The process of writing, testing, and maintaining the source code of computer programs.

Synonyms

coding, scripting, software development.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
programming

Use this word to refer to the overall process of creating software, which includes writing code, testing, debugging, and maintaining applications.

  • I'm studying programming to become a software engineer.
  • Programming requires logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
coding

This word is best used when specifically talking about the act of writing code. It’s often used in a more casual, informal context.

  • I spent the whole night coding a new feature for my app.
  • She loves coding in her free time.
software development

Use this phrase to refer to the holistic process that encompasses all stages of creating a software application, including design, coding, testing, and deployment.

  • Software development involves several stages, including planning and maintenance.
  • He is interested in every aspect of software development, from design to deployment.
scripting

This term is generally used to describe writing small programs or scripts that automate tasks or perform specific functions, often in a scripting language like Python or JavaScript.

  • I wrote a script to automate the backup process.
  • Scripting can save a lot of time on repetitive tasks.

Examples of usage

  • She has a strong background in programming languages.
  • Learning programming can open up many career opportunities.
Context #2 | Noun

general

The action or process of writing computer programs.

Synonyms

coding, development, software engineering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
programming

Use when referring to the act of creating software by writing code in various programming languages.

  • She enjoys programming in Python.
  • The programming task was challenging but rewarding.
coding

Best used when describing the specific task of writing lines of code. Often implies hands-on, practical work.

  • He's coding a new feature for the app.
  • Coding can be a fun and creative activity.
software engineering

Used in a professional or academic setting to describe a disciplined, methodical approach to designing and creating software. It encompasses planning, analysis, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance.

  • Software engineering principles help in building scalable applications.
  • He graduated with a degree in software engineering.
development

Refers to the broader process of creating software, which includes programming, design, testing, and maintenance.

  • They are involved in web development.
  • The development phase is crucial for the project's success.

Examples of usage

  • Programming requires logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • I enjoy the challenge of programming.
Context #3 | Noun

broadcasting

The selection and scheduling of television or radio programs.

Synonyms

arranging, broadcasting, scheduling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
programming

This is used when talking about writing code and creating software applications. It's a technical term specific to the field of computer science.

  • She spent the evening programming the new app.
  • He decided to study programming to become a software developer.
scheduling

This is used when planning events, appointments, or tasks for specific times and dates. It's often used in professional and administrative contexts.

  • He is scheduling a doctor’s appointment for next week.
  • She is in charge of scheduling meetings for the team.
arranging

This is used when talking about organizing events, objects, or situations in a particular order. It's more general and can be used in everyday situations.

  • She is arranging the flowers for the wedding.
  • He is arranging the meeting with the new clients.
broadcasting

This word is used when referring to the transmission of programs or information via radio, television, or other media. It's specific to the field of media and communication.

  • The local station is broadcasting the soccer match live.
  • She has always dreamed of working in broadcasting.

Examples of usage

  • She works in programming and scheduling at a local TV station.
  • Programming for prime time slots is crucial for ratings.
Context #4 | Noun

criminal

The act of planning a crime.

Synonyms

planning, plotting, scheming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
programming

Utilize 'programming' when talking about the act of writing computer code or creating software applications.

  • She spends her evenings programming new features for the app.
  • John is learning programming to build his own website.
planning

Use 'planning' when discussing the process of making detailed arrangements or forecasts for something in the future.

  • We are planning a trip to Europe next summer.
  • The team is planning the next phase of the project.
plotting

Preferred when referring to creating a storyline, especially for a book or movie, or when describing a secretive, often negative scheme.

  • The author spent months plotting the intricate storyline.
  • The villains were plotting to take over the city.
scheming

Use 'scheming' when referring to secretly making clever but dishonest plans, often to achieve something selfishly.

  • The office rumor is that she’s been scheming to get her boss's job.
  • The antagonist in the movie was always scheming against the hero.

Examples of usage

  • The police were able to prevent the programming of the bank robbery.
  • The programming of the heist was carefully orchestrated.
Context #5 | Noun

psychology

The process of conditioning or training a person or animal to behave in a certain way.

Synonyms

behavior modification, conditioning, training.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
programming

This word appears twice in the given group, but it generally refers to creating software or coding as mentioned previously.

  • The programming for the new app took several months to complete
conditioning

Used in psychology and behavioral sciences to describe the process of learning through reinforcement or punishment. It can also refer to physical training.

  • Pavlov's experiments with dogs are a classic example of classical conditioning
training

Used for teaching or developing skills or knowledge in a specific area, can be academic, professional, or physical.

  • She is undergoing training to become a certified nurse
behavior modification

Refers to techniques used to change someone's behavior, often applied in psychology and behavioral therapy.

  • Behavior modification techniques can help children with ADHD manage their symptoms

Examples of usage

  • Behavior programming can be used to modify habits.
  • The programming of the participants was evident in their responses.

Translations

Translations of the word "programming" in other languages:

🇵🇹 programação

🇮🇳 प्रोग्रामिंग

🇩🇪 Programmierung

🇮🇩 pemrograman

🇺🇦 програмування

🇵🇱 programowanie

🇯🇵 プログラミング (puroguramingu)

🇫🇷 programmation

🇪🇸 programación

🇹🇷 programlama

🇰🇷 프로그래밍 (peurogeuraeming)

🇸🇦 برمجة (barmaja)

🇨🇿 programování

🇸🇰 programovanie

🇨🇳 编程 (biānchéng)

🇸🇮 programiranje

🇮🇸 forritun

🇰🇿 бағдарламалау (bağdarlamalau)

🇬🇪 პროგრამირება (programireba)

🇦🇿 proqramlaşdırma

🇲🇽 programación

Etymology

The term 'programming' originated from the word 'program', which in turn comes from the Late Latin 'programma', meaning a written public notice. The modern use of 'programming' in the context of computer science dates back to the mid-20th century, with the development of early computer systems and languages. Over time, programming has evolved to encompass a wide range of activities, from software development to television scheduling and criminal planning.

See also: program, programme, programmed, programmer, programmers, programs.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,222, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.