A variable quantity or characteristic value that determines or influences a system, process, or calculation. Parameters are often used in mathematics, computer science, and technology to define conditions.
example
Um die Simulation zu starten, müssen wir zuerst die richtigen Parameter eingeben.
To start the simulation, we first have to enter the correct parameters.
Usage tips
Register and context
In its main meaning, 'Parameter' (parameter) is a technical term from fields such as computer science, mathematics, or engineering. It is used to describe the settings or variables of a system.
EXAMPLE
Der Programmierer muss die richtigen Parameter für die Funktion festlegen.
The programmer has to define the correct parameters for the function.
Typical verbs
In technical contexts, 'Parameter' (parameter) is often combined with verbs such as 'einstellen' (to set), 'festlegen' (to define/set), 'ändern' (to change), or 'definieren' (to define).
EXAMPLE
Können Sie bitte die Parameter für den Drucker neu einstellen?
Could you please reset the parameters for the printer?
Figurative meaning
Outside of technology, 'Parameter' (parameter) is often used figuratively for general conditions or important factors, especially in business and politics. Typical combinations then include 'wirtschaftliche Parameter' (economic parameters) or 'rechtliche Parameter' (legal parameters).
EXAMPLE
Die politischen Parameter haben sich seit der letzten Wahl stark verändert.
The political parameters have changed significantly since the last election.
Compare with
confusable
Parameter vs Wert
value
'der Wert' and 'der Parameter' both often appear in technology, mathematics, or planning. 'der Parameter' is a quantity, condition, or setting that influences something. 'der Wert' is the specific number or piece of information that this parameter can have. That is why the words are easy to confuse: a parameter often has a value, but it is not the same thing as the value. Memory tip: the parameter is the question or setting; the value is the specific answer or number.
Parameter
Clara ändert einen Parameter im Programm, damit die Berechnung schneller läuft.
Clara changes a parameter in the program so that the calculation runs faster.