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Meaning & use

parameter

noun·Academic

Last updated

UK/pəˈræmɪtə/
US/pəˈræmɪtɚ/

Meanings

  1. nounusually pluralformal

    A fixed limit or boundary that shapes how something can be done.

    Grammar: Most often parameters: within the parameters of the project.

    Patterns

    • within the parameters of something
    • set parameters

    The budget sets the parameters for the project.

    Work within the parameters the manager gave you.

    The parameters of the contest were clearly explained.

  2. nouncountablemathematicstechnical

    A value in mathematics or science that defines a system, and can be changed to alter its behavior.

    Grammar: Used with a specific quantity: the temperature is a parameter.

    Patterns

    • a parameter of something
    • vary a parameter

    The model has three parameters that scientists can adjust.

    Temperature is one key parameter in the experiment.

    Changing a single parameter changed the graph.

  3. nouncountablecomputing

    A value passed to a function or program so that it can perform a task in a particular way.

    Grammar: In programming, a function takes parameters.

    Patterns

    • pass a parameter
    • a parameter to a function

    The function takes two parameters.

    You can pass a parameter on the command line.

    Each parameter must be a number.

Word forms

pluralparameters

Common combinations

set the parameters
The committee set the parameters for the study.
within the parameters
The work must stay within the parameters.
key parameter
Price is a key parameter.
input parameter
The program needs an input parameter.
define the parameters
Define the parameters before you begin.

Synonyms and how they differ

limit
Limit marks a boundary, while parameter can also be an adjustable value.
guideline
Guideline is advice and not strict, but parameter implies firm boundaries.
variable
Variable is a quantity that changes, whereas a parameter is set to define a system.
criterion
Criterion is a standard used to judge something, and not a boundary.

Word family

parametric adjective
relating to parameters
parameterize verb
to express in terms of parameters
parameterization noun
the act of expressing with parameters
perimeter noun
the outer boundary, often confused with parameter

Commonly confused: parameter or perimeter?

parameter vs perimeter

Perimeter is the outer edge or distance around a shape, while parameter is a limit or defining value.

Practice

The director told the team they could be creative as long as they stayed within the ____ of the budget.

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