regular language

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "regular language" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of formal language theory, computer science, and linguistics to refer to a category of languages that can be expressed using regular expressions or finite automata. Example: "In computational theory, a regular language can be recognized by a finite state machine."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

In addition, there's evidence that swearing is handled differently by the brain compared with regular language.

Independent

When a company is "levering up," it often means, in regular language, that it is spending money it doesn't have.

The New York Times

The fact that individuals with brain damage to key language areas can nevertheless swear, indicates that compared with regular language, swearing is a special case.

Independent

Such instances of linguistic iteration frequently fall outside the scope of regular language lessons and yet the patterns they reveal are as commonplace as they are complex.

The Guardian

If the function of foul language - to be held in reserve as a resource more powerful than regular language – is to survive, it has to be used advisedly.

The Guardian - Opinion

And there will be more content on snickers.com in the spring, including a way to translate regular language into the Snickers lingo.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

He has given regular languages and careers talk to students, emphasising the career advantages to speaking multiple languages.

The Guardian

'Regular' language-games, such as the astonishing list provided in PI 23 (which includes, e.g., reporting an event, speculating about an event, forming and testing a hypothesis, making up a story, reading it, play-acting, singing catches, guessing riddles, making a joke, translating, asking, thanking, and so on), bring out the openness of our possibilities in using language and in describing it.

SEP

Based on the hypercode properties, we design a polynomial runtime algorithm for regular languages.

Theoretical Computer Science

Our generator naturally extends known pseudorandom generators against advised regular languages.

Theoretical Computer Science

For example, there is a well-known isomorphism between regular languages and finite deterministic automata.

Theoretical Computer Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, use "regular language" to clearly denote a language that can be described by a regular expression or finite automaton to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "regular language" to mean informal or casual speech. Instead, use terms like "everyday language" or "plain language" to describe informal communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "regular language" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a technical term in computer science, linguistics, and formal language theory. Ludwig's examples show its use in academic and technical contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "regular language" is a technical term primarily used in computer science and linguistics to describe languages that can be defined by regular expressions or finite automata. As Ludwig's AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Although its primary context is academic and scientific, examples show it appearing in news and media sources as well. When not discussing formal language theory, consider using alternatives such as "standard language" or "common language" for broader applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standard language

Focuses on the normative or accepted form of a language.

conventional language

Emphasizes adherence to established customs or norms in language use.

ordinary language

Highlights the everyday or common usage of language.

common language

Indicates a language shared and understood by a wide group of people.

everyday language

Stresses the use of language in daily, informal situations.

natural language

Refers to language as it is naturally spoken or written, without artificial constraints.

plain language

Emphasizes clarity and simplicity in language use.

simple language

Highlights the lack of complexity or sophistication in language.

general language

Indicates a broad or non-specialized form of language.

vernacular

Refers to the native or commonly spoken language of a specific region or group.

FAQs

What does "regular language" mean in computer science?

In computer science, a "regular language" refers to a language that can be defined by a regular expression or recognized by a finite automaton. It's a specific term within formal language theory.

How does "regular language" differ from natural language?

While "regular language" has a specific meaning in formal language theory and computer science, "natural language" refers to the languages people use every day, like English or Spanish. Natural languages are more complex and less structured than regular languages.

What are some alternatives to "regular language" in everyday conversation?

In everyday conversation, you can use alternatives like "common language", "ordinary language", or "standard language" to refer to typical, non-technical language use.

Is "regular language" the same as "formal language"?

No, while a "regular language" is a type of "formal language", not all formal languages are regular. Formal languages are defined by specific rules and grammars, but regular languages are a subset with simpler structures.