reprogramming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reprogramming" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to changing or modifying the programming of a system, device, or software. Example: "The engineers are focused on reprogramming the software to improve its performance and fix existing bugs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Eventually, like Pavlov's dog, you will come to associate her being annoying with a delicious treat – thus reprogramming your entire relationship in a positive manner".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In 2010 computer scientists at the University of Michigan infiltrated a test poll in the District of Columbia, reprogramming the software to play a well-known ditty whenever a vote was cast.

The Economist

The software uses previously unknown tricks to worm its way into industrial control systems undetected, searching for a particular configuration that matches its target at which point it wreaks havoc by reprogramming the system, closing valves and shutting down pipelines.This is not fiction, but fact.

The Economist

This means reprogramming the goal-seeking software that drives the agent.

The Economist

For a start, the technical difficulties of reintroducing a national currency, reprogramming computers and vending machines, minting coins and printing notes are huge (three years' preparation was needed for the euro).

The Economist

The JPL controllers coped with this by reprogramming Voyager 2 to rotate by 90° and use its elevation motor to pan the camera instead.

The Economist

In them, she claimed that she and her colleagues had found a simple way to reprogram ordinary mouse cells, persuading them to transform themselves into pluripotent cells.Making pluripotent cells by reprogramming ordinary cells avoids the need to harvest them from embryos, their natural habitat, which is an ethically delicate matter.

The Economist

The 50-year-old scientist shared the 2012 Nobel prize for medicine for his work reprogramming mature cells into induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells.

The Economist

Jean-Louis Bariller of the French vending-machine association reckons that the cost per machine will range from FFr3,000 ($540) for the oldest, with mechanical brains, to FFr500 for the most modern, in which adjustment is simply a matter of reprogramming an internal computer.

The Economist

And it would be foolish to start reprogramming all the models on the basis of this single result.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The grandparents' genes, in other words, had been "reprogrammed", either by hardship or luxury, and the reprogramming was transmitted along with the genes down two further generations.The discovery that acquired characteristics can be inherited too is big news.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing technological systems, use "reprogramming" to emphasize the act of changing the underlying code or instructions. For behavioral or cognitive contexts, consider alternatives like "retraining" or "reconditioning" for more precise meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "reprogramming" when the process involves minor adjustments or simple fixes. "Reprogramming" typically suggests a significant overhaul or fundamental change to the system or process.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "reprogramming" is as a noun, often referring to the act or process of altering the instructions or code of a system or device. As Ludwig AI suggests, it can also function as a verb in its present participle form. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use across technical and biological contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Academic Sources

8%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reprogramming" is a versatile term primarily functioning as a noun, denoting the act of altering instructions or code in systems ranging from computers to biological organisms. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically sound and widely applicable, as seen in numerous examples. While suitable for technical, scientific, and general contexts, it's crucial to consider more precise alternatives like "reconfiguring" or "retraining" depending on the specific context. Used effectively, "reprogramming" accurately conveys the concept of modifying or changing a process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reconfiguring

Focuses on altering the configuration of a system or device, often implying a structural change.

recalibrating

Implies adjusting settings to improve accuracy or performance.

remodifying

Suggests making changes or alterations to something that has already been modified before.

reengineering

Emphasizes a complete redesign and reconstruction for improved efficiency.

revising

Focuses on making corrections and improvements to a plan or document.

resetting

Implies returning a device or system to its original settings or state.

retraining

Specifically relates to teaching new skills or behaviors, often in a professional context.

transforming

Conveys a dramatic change in form or appearance.

adjusting

Suggests making small changes or corrections to achieve a desired outcome.

altering

Implies making a change or modification, often without specifying the nature or extent of the change.

FAQs

How is "reprogramming" typically used in technical contexts?

In technical fields, "reprogramming" refers to modifying the instructions or code of a system or device to alter its function. This can range from updating software to fundamentally changing how a machine operates.

What's the difference between "reprogramming" and "reconfiguring"?

"Reprogramming" generally involves changing the underlying code or instructions, while "reconfiguring" implies altering the arrangement or settings of existing components. Reprogramming is usually deeper and more fundamental.

Can "reprogramming" be used in non-technical contexts?

Yes, "reprogramming" can be used metaphorically to describe changing habits, behaviors, or thought patterns. However, it's important to ensure the context is appropriate and the meaning is clear.

What are some alternatives to "reprogramming" when discussing personal habits?

When talking about changing personal habits, you might use terms like "retraining", "reconditioning", or "modifying behavior" for more nuance. The best choice depends on the specific type of change being described.