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alignment

n.
US //əˈɫaɪnmənt// UK //ɐlˈaɪnmənt// align·ment
  1. 1 physical arrangement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the arrangement of things in a straight line or in their correct relative positions.

    the state of being arranged in a straight line or in correct relative positions.

    Example

    The wheels on the car were out of alignment, making it pull to the left.

    Example

    The architect ensured the perfect alignment of the pillars with the central hallway to create a sense of symmetry.
  2. 2 agreement or alliance (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    an agreement between groups, countries, or people who have the same goals.

    the act of agreeing with or supporting a particular group, ideology, or set of goals.

    Example

    The company's new strategy is in alignment with its environmental goals.

    Example

    The political alignment of the two nations shifted significantly following the signing of the new trade agreement.
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  1. 3 astronomy (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    when three or more planets or stars move into a straight line.

    the positioning of three or more celestial bodies in a straight line.

    Example

    A rare alignment of five planets will be visible in the night sky this week.

    Example

    The alignment of the sun, moon, and earth during an eclipse provides a unique opportunity for solar research.
  2. 4 AI safety (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Academic Computing

    making sure that artificial intelligence shares the same goals and values as humans.

    the process of ensuring that the goals and behaviors of an artificial intelligence system are consistent with human values.

    Example

    Researchers are working on AI alignment to prevent computers from making dangerous decisions.

    Example

    The challenge of value alignment remains a central concern for developers of advanced large language models.

  3. 5 gaming/roleplay (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Informal

    the moral or ethical personality of a character in a game.

    a categorization of a character's ethical and moral perspective, typically along axes of good versus evil and law versus chaos.

    Example

    My character has a 'lawful good' alignment, so he always follows the rules.

    Example

    The player chose a chaotic neutral alignment to allow for more unpredictable decision-making during the campaign.
Origin

From French alignement, by surface analysis, align + -ment.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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