# generate

/ˈdʒɛnɝˌeɪt/ (US) · /dʒˈɛnəɹˌeɪt/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. to produce or create

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to cause something to exist, like an idea, a feeling, or a result.

For teachers: to bring into existence or give rise to a state, emotion, or outcome.

- The new marketing campaign helped generate a lot of interest in the product.
- The proposed policy changes are expected to generate significant debate among committee members regarding long-term fiscal responsibility.

Usage: Often used with abstract nouns like 'interest', 'excitement', 'revenue', or 'debate'.

### 2. to produce energy

verb · CEFR B2 · Technical

to produce a form of energy, such as electricity or heat.

For teachers: to produce energy or a substance through a physical or chemical process.

- Wind turbines generate electricity by using the power of the wind.
- The nuclear reactor generates enough thermal energy to power the entire coastal region during peak winter months.

### 3. to create using a computer

verb · CEFR B2 · Technical

to use a computer program to create something automatically.

For teachers: to create data, images, or code through the application of an algorithm or program.

- The website can generate a random password for your new account.
- The software uses a complex algorithm to generate realistic terrain for the video game environment.

### 4. to form a geometric figure

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

to form a shape by moving a line or a curve in space.

For teachers: to trace or form a geometric figure through the motion of a point, line, or surface.

- A cylinder is generated when you rotate a rectangle around one of its sides.
- Rotating a circle around an external axis generates a torus, a surface frequently studied in topology.

## Examples

- The new wind farm will generate enough electricity for the whole town.
- The marketing campaign helped generate a lot of interest in the new product before it even launched.
- The algorithm is designed to generate a unique sequence of numbers based on the user's initial input and the current system time.

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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.