# machine learning

CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/machine-learning
Updated: 2026-04-25

## Definition

a type of artificial intelligence where computers learn to do tasks by looking at data. Instead of following strict rules, the system improves itself over time through experience.

For teachers: a branch of artificial intelligence focused on developing algorithms that enable computers to learn from data and improve their predictive performance without explicit programming.

## Examples

- The app uses machine learning to recommend songs you might like.
- By applying machine learning to thousands of medical scans, the software can now detect early signs of disease faster than a human doctor.
- While traditional programming relies on explicit instructions, machine learning allows systems to identify complex patterns within massive datasets, continuously refining their predictive models.

## Usage notes

- Frequently functions attributively as a noun adjunct to modify terms like 'model', 'algorithm', or 'engineer'.

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