Meaning & use
process
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Meanings
nouncountable
A series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular result.
Grammar: Often used with 'the' or 'a': the process of applying; a slow process.
Patterns
- the process of doing something
- a process for something
- go through a process
Learning a language is a gradual process.
The application process takes about two weeks.
We need to follow the correct process to get approval.
nouncountabletechnical
A natural series of changes or events, especially in living things or the environment.
Grammar: Often used in scientific contexts: the process of digestion.
Patterns
- a natural process
- the process of growth
Photosynthesis is a complex biological process.
The aging process affects everyone differently.
verbtransitive
To handle information or materials by following a series of steps.
Grammar: Takes an object: process the data; process the application.
Patterns
- process something
- process data
- process an application
The computer processes millions of instructions per second.
It takes a few days to process your request.
The factory processes raw materials into finished goods.
Word forms
| plural | processes |
|---|---|
| third person singular | processes |
| past tense | processed |
| past participle | processed |
| -ing form | processing |
Common combinations
- in the process of
- She is in the process of moving to a new apartment.
- due process
- Everyone is entitled to due process under the law.
- process information
- The brain processes information very quickly.
- a lengthy process
- Getting a visa can be a lengthy process.
Synonyms and how they differ
Word family
- proceed verb
- To continue or go forward.
- proceeding noun
- An event or legal action.
- processing noun
- The act of handling something through steps.
- processor noun
- A machine or person that processes things.
Commonly confused: process or proceed?
process vs proceed
A verb meaning to continue; 'process' is a noun or verb meaning a series of steps or to handle something.
Practice
The company uses a special software to _____ customer orders quickly.
Choose one answer.
'Process' is the verb meaning to handle something through steps. 'Proceed' means to continue, 'proceeds' is a noun, and 'proceeding' is a noun or participle.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “process”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.