source code

USAGE SUMMARY

"source code" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to computer code written by a programmer to make a computer program. For example, "The programmer went through the source code line by line to debug the program."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Aleynikov's downloading of the source code.

The New York Times

"Source Code" is bigger, shinier, pricier.

The New York Times

Soon cyberespionage rings could steal source code.

The New York Times

SOURCE CODE Opens on Friday nationwide.

The New York Times

Our source code is available here.

The Guardian - Tech

"Source code is a company's crown jewels.

The New York Times

(You can download the source code for yourself).

The New Yorker

Duncan Jones (who made Moon and Source Code) directs.

The Guardian - Film

Android 3.1 source code is also being withheld.

The Guardian - Tech

"We are modern globalization's source code — its DNA," he declares.

The New York Times - Books

"Old source code is the new Trojan horse waiting to be exploited, and open-source code is only the beginning.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing intellectual property, clearly define the licensing terms associated with the "source code". This ensures proper usage and attribution.

Common error

Avoid using "source code" interchangeably with "executable files". "Source code" is human-readable and needs compilation or interpretation, whereas executable files are directly runnable by the computer.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "source code" is that of a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It identifies the human-readable instructions that make up a computer program. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "source code" refers to the human-readable instructions in a programming language, vital for software development, licensing discussions, and understanding program functionality. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage in English. It commonly appears in technical and professional contexts, particularly within scientific, news, and wiki environments. When discussing "source code", clarify licensing terms and distinguish it from executable files. Related phrases include "codebase" and "program code". Remember that using the proper jargon is important in the world of computer programming.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

codebase

This term refers to the entire collection of source code for a project, emphasizing the scope.

program code

This alternative highlights the fact that the source code is part of a program.

software code

This phrase emphasizes the software aspect of the code.

application code

This alternative specifies the code's role within a particular application.

instruction set

This term refers to the specific set of instructions written in the source code.

machine code equivalent

Refers to the translated version of the human-readable source code that the computer can execute directly.

executable code

This refers to code ready to be run, often compiled from the source code.

original coding

This emphasizes that the code is the original version, not a modification.

programming script

Highlights the scripting aspect, often used in web development or automation.

algorithms

Focuses on the algorithmic logic implemented in the source code.

FAQs

How can I access the "source code" of a program?

Access to "source code" depends on the software's licensing. Open-source software typically provides the "source code" freely, while proprietary software usually does not. Check the software's license agreement or the developer's website.

What's the difference between "source code" and machine code?

"Source code" is written in a human-readable programming language, while machine code is the binary code that a computer's processor executes directly. The "executable code" is generated from "source code" by a compiler.

Why is it important to comment your "source code"?

Commenting your "source code" makes it easier for others (and yourself in the future) to understand the code's functionality and logic. Good comments improve maintainability and reduce debugging time.

What does it mean when software is described as "open source"?

Open source software means the "source code" is freely available, allowing users to view, modify, and distribute the code. This promotes collaboration and transparency.