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Recursively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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recursively

[rษชหˆkษ™rsษชvli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

mathematics

In a way that involves a procedure that can be repeated multiple times, each time using the result of the previous iteration as the starting point.

Synonyms

iteratively, repeatedly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recursively

Use this word when describing a process in programming or mathematics where a function calls itself as part of its execution.

  • The factorial function can be defined recursively.
  • The algorithm generates the Fibonacci sequence recursively.
repeatedly

This word is used in general contexts to describe an action that is done again and again.

  • She called his name repeatedly, but there was no answer.
  • The teacher had to explain the concept repeatedly because the students were having trouble understanding.
iteratively

This word is suitable for describing a process that repetitively applies steps to reach a desired outcome, often used in the context of programming, mathematics, and project management.

  • We solved the problem iteratively through repeated approximations.
  • The software development was completed iteratively, with each cycle improving the previous version.

Examples of usage

  • The function is defined recursively, with each step depending on the previous one.
  • To solve the problem, you need to think recursively and break it down into smaller subproblems.
Context #2 | Adverb

computing

Referring to a programming technique in which a function calls itself in order to solve a problem.

Synonyms

self-referential.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recursively

Used in contexts like mathematics, computer science, or logic to describe a process where a function calls itself. It often implies a task that is repetitive or nested.

  • The factorial of a number can be calculated recursively.
  • The algorithm is defined recursively.
self-referential

Applies to objects, expressions, or descriptions that refer to themselves. Often used in literature, philosophy, or art to describe something that makes reference to its own structure or nature.

  • The painting is self-referential as it depicts the artist painting the same scene.
  • His novel contains a self-referential narrative, commenting on the act of storytelling itself.

Examples of usage

  • The recursive algorithm is more elegant but may require more memory.
  • The function calls itself recursively until a base case is reached.
Context #3 | Adjective

linguistics

Relating to or involving a construction in which a word or phrase refers back to itself.

Synonyms

self-referential.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recursively

Used in technical and mathematical contexts to describe a process that calls itself as part of its definition or execution. Often used in programming to describe functions or algorithms.

  • The factorial function can be defined recursively.
  • The algorithm sorts the list recursively, by dividing it into smaller lists.
self-referential

Typically used to describe something that refers to itself, often in literature, art, or discussions. It can also be used in a general context to describe statements, objects, or concepts that include a reference to themselves.

  • The novel is self-referential, constantly talking about its own narrative technique.
  • This statement is self-referential: โ€˜This sentence is false.โ€™

Examples of usage

  • The sentence 'This sentence is false' is an example of a recursively self-referential statement.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Computer Science

  • In programming, recursion is a common technique where a function calls itself to solve problems in a simpler way.
  • Recursive algorithms can be more elegant and easier to understand, but they can also use more memory than their iterative counterparts.
  • A classic example of recursion is calculating factorials, where the function defines itself using previous calculations.

Mathematics

  • Recursively defined sequences, like the Fibonacci sequence, rely on previous terms for their current value.
  • Many mathematical structures, such as sets or trees, use recursion for their definitions, creating simple rules to form complex systems.
  • In calculus, recursive definitions can help in understanding limits and functions, showing connections between different values.

Literature

  • Some narratives employ recursive storytelling, where a story reflects on itself or is told within a story, like layers in a novel.
  • In poetry, recursive structures can create rhythm and emphasize themes by repeating certain lines or ideas.
  • Writers often use recursion symbolically to explore concepts like memory or consciousness.

Psychology

  • The concept of recursion helps to explain complex cognitive processes, such as how we remember patterns by relating them to previous experiences.
  • In therapy, recalling earlier memories can sometimes lead to insights about current behaviors, showing a recursive relationship between past and present.
  • Cognitive development theories also suggest that learning often involves revisiting and building on previously mastered concepts.

Origin of 'recursively'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'recursio', meaning 'to run back', which tells us about the idea of going back or returning.
  • The prefix 're-' suggests repetition, as in words like 'repeat' or 'revisit'.
  • The suffix '-ively' shows that the word describes a way of doing something, which is common in English for forming adverbs.

The term 'recursively' is derived from the word 'recurse,' which comes from the Latin word 're-' (back) and 'currere' (to run). The concept of recursion has been used in various fields such as mathematics, computing, and linguistics to solve problems that can be broken down into smaller, similar subproblems. The idea of self-referentiality and repetition is central to the understanding of recursion.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,948, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.