macro
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a single command or shortcut that automatically follows a set of instructions to save time.
n.a single instruction that expands automatically into a set of instructions to perform a particular task.
Simple“I created a macro in the spreadsheet to format the data with one click.”
In context“The analyst programmed a complex macro to automate the monthly data extraction, significantly reducing the margin for manual entry errors.”
UsageOften used with the verbs 'run', 'create', or 'write'.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a short word for 'macronutrient' — the main parts of food like protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
n.a clipping of macronutrient, referring to the primary dietary components required in large quantities.
Simple“Athletes often track their macros to make sure they get enough protein.”
In context“Bodybuilders frequently manipulate their daily macros, adjusting the ratio of fats to carbohydrates depending on their current training phase.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
n.a type of photography or lens used for taking very close-up pictures of small things.
n.a clipping of macro lens or macro photography, involving extreme close-up shots of small subjects.
Simple“She used a macro to get a clear photo of the tiny insect on the leaf.”
In context“The photographer specialised in macro, capturing the intricate geometric patterns found on the wings of tropical butterflies.”
SynonymsAntonymswide angle - 04 C1 Advanced
adj.relating to the whole of something rather than just small parts.
adj.relating to a large-scale or overall system rather than its individual components.
Simple“We need to look at the macro view of the economy to understand the problem.”
In context“From a macro perspective, the shift in global trade routes will have profound implications for local manufacturing hubs over the next decade.”
- 05 C2 Proficiency
v.to use a computer shortcut to perform an action quickly.
v.to execute or assign a task to a macro command.
Simple“He was accused of cheating because he macroed his attacks in the game.”
In context“The player was banned after the moderators discovered he had macroed his entire resource-gathering routine to run while he was away from his desk.”
Synonyms
“Not just the macro experience of loss but all the tiny micro details I need to pore over.”
“This sensor is also used for macro shots on the Z Fold 8 Ultra, and the detail you get close up is noticeably better than the last Fold.”
1933, from macro-, from French, from Latin, from Ancient Greek μακρός (makrós, “long”).
Attested 1959, shortened from macroinstruction.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.