framework

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A set of ideas, rules, or steps that gives shape to a plan, system, or piece of thinking.

   Grammar: Often takes for or of: a framework for decision-making.

   Patterns

   • a framework for something
   • within a framework

   The treaty sets out a framework for resolving trade disputes.

   Teachers use a simple framework to plan each lesson.

   The study's theoretical framework draws on two earlier models.

2. 2nouncountable

   The physical frame of crossed or joined parts that holds up a structure.

   Grammar: Used for visible supports: the framework of a roof.

   Patterns

   • the framework of something

   Builders raised the wooden framework of the barn in two days.

   Rust had eaten through the steel framework of the old bridge.

   The kite's light framework was made of bamboo.

3. 3nouncountablecomputing

   A ready-made set of code and tools that programmers build software upon.

   Grammar: Often named: a web framework.

   Patterns

   • a framework for something

   The team built the app with a popular web framework.

   Using a framework saves developers from rewriting basic features.

   She learned a new testing framework last month.

Word forms

Common combinations

legal framework

The country needs a clearer legal framework for data privacy.

conceptual framework

The paper offers a conceptual framework for understanding stress.

establish a framework

Officials met to establish a framework for cooperation.

within the framework of

The talks took place within the framework of the agreement.

regulatory framework

Banks must follow the regulatory framework set by the government.

Synonyms and how they differ

structure

Structure is more general and can mean any arrangement, while framework suggests a supporting outline that others fill in.

outline

An outline gives only the main points of something written, whereas a framework includes rules or principles that guide what follows.

scaffolding

Scaffolding is a temporary support, literally or figuratively, while a framework can be permanent.

skeleton

Skeleton stresses the bare minimum parts, while framework suggests an usable system.

Word family

frame noun

a border or structure that holds something

frame verb

to build or put into a structure

work noun

the second part of the compound

reframe verb

to look at an issue in a new way

Commonly confused: framework or frame of reference?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “framework”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words