parameter

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "parameter" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun which means "a numerical or other measurable factor forming one of a set that defines a system or sets the conditions of its operation". For example, you can say: "We changed the parameters of the experiment in order to optimize the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

On realising that the equations of general relativity allowed for the universe's expansion (or, indeed, contraction), he added a parameter describing just such a constant in order to keep it from doing either.

The Economist

By not accounting for these variables in the model, the parameter for the tax rate is a catch-all that may be biased.Second, the figure of a "1.07% decrease in annual investment for a one percentage point increase in taxes" is based on a regression that is not statistically significant.

The Economist

The density parameter is, in turn, a measure of just how much normal matter, dark matter and dark energy there is.

The Economist

But their method uses the clusters in a completely different way from Dr Shanks, and thus opens a second flank against the conventional wisdom.Cosmological theory says that the relationship between the mass of a galaxy cluster and its age is a test of the value of the "density parameter" of the universe.

The Economist

On economic ideology votes, the effect was especially large:In the case of the civil rights and budget waiver votes, the parameter estimates imply that the effect of a senator's own party affiliation would be entirely neutralized by a shift in the views of his most affluent constituents from one extreme to the other of the distribution of state opinion shown in Figure 1.

The Economist

Location will, in effect, be used as a search parameter, to narrow down the information presented to the user.

The Economist

This is crucial, because if it had been zero they would have no experimental purchase on a fourth parameter, called delta.Delta is a measure of how much neutrinos feel CP violation.

The Economist

That means the Reynolds number (a critical parameter that reflects a fluid's density, velocity and viscosity as well as the dimensions of the object it flows around) has to be the same in a microengine as it is in a conventional motor.

The Economist

Or the precise parameter values?

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

And Arntzenius (1994) argues that all relativistic parameter-dependent theories are impossible on pain of causal paradoxes.

SEP

That is, he argues that in certain experimental circumstances any relativistic, parameter-dependent theory would give rise to closed causal loops in which violations of PI could not obtain.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "parameter" in technical writing, clearly define its scope and how it influences the system or model being described to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid confusing "parameter", which is a variable or factor, with "perimeter", which refers to the boundary of a closed geometric figure or area. Ensure you're using the correct term based on the context.

Linguistic Context

The word "parameter" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a variable that defines a system or sets the conditions of its operation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the examples provided showcase its role across scientific, technical, and general contexts, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "parameter" is a noun that signifies a variable influencing a system or defining its operational conditions. As validated by Ludwig AI, this term is grammatically correct and highly versatile. Its usage is most frequent within scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When writing, ensure you are clear about which "parameter" you are referring to. Keep in mind the difference between "parameter" and "perimeter", a common point of confusion. For alternative phrasing, you may consider using "variable factor" or "defining characteristic", depending on the specific context you need to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

variable factor

Emphasizes the aspect of being a changeable element influencing a system.

defining characteristic

Highlights the role of setting something apart from the others.

key determinant

Focuses on its critical influence on an outcome.

control variable

Specifies its function within a controlled environment or experiment.

input value

Highlights its use as data provided to a function or system.

argument

In programming, it is the value passed to a function.

limiting factor

Emphasizes the role of restricting or controlling a process.

feature

Highlights a notable aspect or element.

specification

Indicates a precise detail or requirement.

criterion

Focuses on it as a standard or test.

FAQs

How is "parameter" used in a sentence?

The word "parameter" is used to denote a variable that defines a system. For example: "We need to adjust the "setting parameter" to improve performance."

What's a simple definition of "parameter"?

A "parameter" is a characteristic or measurable factor that helps in defining a particular system, process, or function. It's often used in science, mathematics, and computer science.

What can I say instead of "parameter"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "variable factor", "key determinant", or "defining characteristic".

What's the difference between "parameter" and "variable"?

While both terms relate to values that can change, a "parameter" is often used to define the characteristics of a system, whereas a "variable" is a more general term for a value that can vary within a specific context or equation.