computer program

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "computer program" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a set of coded instructions that tells a computer how to perform a task. For example, "I wrote a computer program to keep track of my expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A rogue computer program?

The New York Times

When it's a computer program.

The Economist

This is a computer program.

The New York Times

Not a computer program.

The New York Times

Or a game-show-winning computer program?

The Economist

Iamus is a computer program.

The Guardian - Music

They are being selected by computer program.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a huge computer program.

The New Yorker

He was like a computer program.

The Guardian - Opinion

A computer program VIBUPAL has been developed.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

This paper presents a FORTRAN computer program.

Advances in Space Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the development or modification of a "computer program", specify the programming language (e.g., Python, Java) for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "computer program" interchangeably with broader terms like "software" or "system". A "computer program" is a specific set of instructions, while "software" can encompass multiple programs and associated data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "computer program" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of software. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable in written English. It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence to denote a set of coded instructions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "computer program" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to a set of instructions that tells a computer how to perform a task. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts, with a neutral register suitable for a wide audience. While "computer programme" is an acceptable alternative, "computer program" is more widely used. Remember to specify the programming language when discussing program development and avoid confusing it with the broader term "software".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

software application

Replaces "program" with "application", emphasizing the practical use and purpose of the software.

application software

Inverts the order of "software application", subtly shifting the emphasis.

executable code

Focuses on the form of the program that can be run by a computer, highlighting its operational aspect.

programmed instructions

Focuses on the specific set of instructions coded in the program.

software package

Suggests a collection of programs designed to work together, implying a more comprehensive offering.

algorithm implementation

Highlights the translation of an algorithm into a working program, emphasizing the underlying logic.

digital application

Broadens the scope to any application existing in a digital format, not necessarily on a computer.

computational tool

Emphasizes the utility of the program as a resource for computation and problem-solving.

source code

Emphasizes the human-readable instructions before compilation, focusing on the development aspect.

automated system

Highlights the automated nature of the program, suggesting minimal human intervention.

FAQs

How can I use "computer program" in a sentence?

You can use "computer program" to refer to a set of instructions that a computer follows to perform a specific task. For example, "The engineers developed a sophisticated "computer program" to analyze the data."

What's the difference between "computer program" and "software"?

"Computer program" refers to a specific set of coded instructions, while "software" is a broader term that includes multiple programs, data, and related documentation.

What is another word for computer program?

Alternatives to "computer program" include "software application", "executable code" or simply "program", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "computer programme" instead of "computer program"?

Yes, "computer programme" is an accepted spelling, especially in British English, whereas "computer program" is more common in American English. Both are grammatically correct and understandable.