code
gb/kˈoʊd/ us/kˈoʊd/
B1
English
~ 1700
Senses
0 senses
Noun
B1
entity
1
system of symbols or rules
A set of letters, numbers, or signs that have a special meaning and are used to give information or instructions.
Usage pattern:
[someone] writes [something] in code
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'code' meaning 'law' with 'code' meaning 'symbols for information', leading to unclear sentences.
Synonyms
cipher (Often refers to a secret or encrypted code, especially in security contexts.)
|
symbol system (More general and not limited to secrecy or computing.)
Antonyms
plain language (Meaning expressed directly without using a code or symbols.)
Collocations
computer code
|postal code
|security code
|source code
|access code
Themes
technology
|communication
Examples
- The programmer wrote the code for the new app.
- You need a security code to enter the building.
- Morse code uses dots and dashes to represent letters.
- The postal code helps the mail reach the right address.
Learner examples
- I can read this code on the screen.
- She entered the code to open the door.
- The code tells the computer what to do.
Noun
B2
entity
2
official set of rules or laws
A set of rules or laws that people agree to follow.
Usage pattern:
the code of [organization/society]
Common mistake:
Learners may confuse 'code' as 'law' with 'code' as 'computer instructions'. Context is key.
Synonyms
regulations (Rules set by an authority; may be less comprehensive than a full code.)
|
statutes (Formal written laws, often forming part of a legal code.)
Antonyms
anarchy (A state without laws or codes.)
Collocations
legal code
|criminal code
|civil code
|code of conduct
Themes
law
|society
|politics
Examples
- The criminal code defines different types of offenses.
- The company has a strict code of conduct.
- The civil code governs private rights and matters.
Learner examples
- The school has a dress code.
- The criminal code is about laws for crimes.
- We follow a safety code at work.
Verb
technical
B1
action
3
write computer program instructions
To write commands for a computer program using special words and rules.
Usage pattern:
to code [a program/application]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'code' (verb) with 'encode', which can mean converting information into another form, not necessarily programming.
Synonyms
program (More formal; can also refer to the act of planning in non-computer contexts.)
Antonyms
decode (To translate coded information into normal language; opposite in terms of interpreting rather than creating.)
Collocations
code an app
|code in Python
|learn to code
Themes
technology
|work
Examples
- She learned how to code in JavaScript.
- They are coding a new video game.
- He spends most of his day coding software for clients.
Learner examples
- I want to learn how to code.
- We can code this game together.
- He codes apps for phones.
Verb
B2
action
4
convert into symbols or signals
To change information into signs or symbols so others cannot easily understand it.
Usage pattern:
to code [a message/information]
Synonyms
encrypt (Specifically refers to secure coding for secrecy in digital systems.)
Antonyms
decode (To change coded symbols back into understandable form.)
Collocations
code a message
|coded language
Themes
communication
|technology
Examples
- They coded the message before sending it.
- Sensitive data should be coded for security reasons.
- The spy coded her reports to avoid detection.
Learner examples
- I will code this message so no one understands it.
- They coded the letter before sending it.
- He can code secret messages.
Grammar
Dictionary form
code
IPA
GB/kˈoʊd/
US/kˈoʊd/
Syllables & stress
code (1 syllable)
Stress on 1st syllable (code)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: code
- Plural: code, codes
Verb
- Base: code
- 3rd Person Singular: codes
- Present Participle: coding
- Past: coded
Word family
Expressions
in code
1/ˈɪn kˈoʊd/
fixed phrase
using symbols instead of normal words
Using special signs, numbers, or letters instead of normal words to give information.
Examples
- The soldiers spoke in code to keep their plans secret.
- She sent me a message in code so no one else could read it.
zip code
1/zˈɪp kˈoʊd/
fixed phrase
postal number in the US
A number used in the US to show where mail should be sent.
Examples
- Please write your zip code on the form.
- I forgot his zip code and the letter came back.
area code
1/ˈɛɹiə kˈoʊd/
fixed phrase
telephone number prefix for region
The first numbers in a phone number that show which part of a country it is from.
Examples
- What's the area code for New York City?
- You need to dial the area code when calling long-distance.
- You need to dial the area code first when calling long distance.
code of conduct
1/kˈoʊd əv kˈɑndʌkt/
fixed phrase
rules for acceptable behavior
A set of rules about how people should behave in a group or organization.
Examples
- Every employee must follow the company's code of conduct.
- All employees must follow the company's code of conduct.
- The sports club has a strict code of conduct for members.
- The school has a strict code of conduct for students.