# clean architecture

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/clean-architecture
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a way of organizing computer code so that different parts are kept separate and easy to change. It helps developers update the database or the user interface without breaking the main business rules.

For teachers: a software design philosophy that emphasizes the separation of concerns by organizing code into concentric layers. The core business logic remains independent of external frameworks, databases, and user interfaces, ensuring the system is testable and maintainable.

## Examples

- Our team uses clean architecture to keep the code organized.
- By adopting clean architecture, the startup was able to swap their entire database system in a weekend without modifying any core business logic.
- The primary benefit of clean architecture lies in its decoupling of high-level policies from low-level details, which facilitates easier unit testing and prevents framework lock-in over the software's lifecycle.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.