code

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "code" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a set of rules, regulations, or a system of words, numbers, or symbols used for communication, such as a computer code. For example, "I used a coding language to design the website."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Of course, this is exactly the way the tax code works now: tax rates rise at certain income thresholds, meaning that when you get to a certain income level, the government takes more of every dollar you earn.

The Economist

The money is accessed through their mobile phones, with M-Pepea sending a special pin code to be used in cash machines.

The Guardian

Mike Rogers of Michigan, who also chairs the intelligence committee, criticised a decision to add new software improvements to the website while it was still running, or "hot-swapping code", which he said exposed users to the potentially insecure updates.

The Guardian

The highly anticipated report found the prank breached the commercial radio code of practice in three ways.

The Guardian

The information commissioner has issued a code of practice for CCTV operators.

The Guardian - Opinion

The couple are now accused of organising and participating in the demonstrations under an article of the country's criminal code relating to "mass disturbances".

The Guardian

This will require you to type in a code (usually sent to your phone via SMS) when you try to log in to your account from a new location.

The Guardian - Tech

The code has been in production for the better part of a month now and helped dramatically collapse the code size and complexity in a way that I feel will be simple to maintain.

The Guardian

Lucas said the legal action, filed with the Geneva civil court, aimed to force Waza to enforce its code of ethics, or to expel Jaza.

The Guardian

One union leader told me: 'I did not cause the failure of Seattle, but I contributed to it.' 'Seattle' is now the code word for protest against the seemingly inexorable march of 'globalisation' and extreme free market economics.

The Guardian - Business

SYDNEY Wednesday 5 August, 10am-5pm MELBOURNE Friday 21 August ,10am-5pm SyDatesDates: Wednesday 5 August Times: 10am-5pm Location: Surry Hills Price: $499 Event capacity: 20 Dress code: There is no dress code for Masterclasses.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to computer programming, clarify the type of "code" being used (e.g., source code, object code) for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid using the term "code" ambiguously; specify whether you're referring to a computer program, a set of rules, or a system of symbols to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The word "code" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a system of rules or a set of instructions, as demonstrated by Ludwig. It can also function as a verb, meaning to write software programs. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "code" is a versatile word with several meanings, primarily functioning as a noun or verb. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and very commonly used. Its core uses involve referring to a system of rules, regulations, or a set of instructions, especially in computer programming. It is commonly found in contexts such as News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. To avoid ambiguity, it's crucial to specify the intended meaning based on the context. Whether discussing ethical codes, legal codes, or software instructions, understanding the scope of the "code" is essential for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

programming code

Specifies the context as relating to programming.

source code

Specifically refers to the human-readable instructions for a computer program.

ethical guidelines

Emphasizes the moral or ethical aspect of a set of rules.

rules of conduct

Focuses on the behavioral aspect of a set of rules.

computer instructions

More general term for programming commands.

dress regulations

Specifically refers to rules about clothing.

penal code

Highlights the legal or criminal context of a set of rules.

cipher

Refers specifically to a system for disguising a message.

regulatory framework

Emphasizes the structure and control aspect of rules.

cryptographic system

More technical term for a cipher.

FAQs

How is the word "code" typically used in a sentence?

The word "code" can function as a noun referring to a set of rules, like a "dress code", or as a verb meaning to write computer programs. For instance, "He learned to code in Python."

What are some alternative terms I can use instead of "code"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "guidelines", "regulations", "principles", or "software instructions".

What's the difference between a "code" and a "law"?

While both "code" and "law" refer to sets of rules, a "law" is typically a formal statute enacted by a legislative body, whereas a "code" can be a less formal set of rules or principles, such as a "code of ethics".

In the context of computer programming, what does "code" refer to?

In programming, "code" refers to the set of instructions written in a programming language that tells a computer what to do. This can also be referred to as "source code", which is human-readable, or "machine code", which is directly executable by the computer.