iterate

/ˈɪtəreɪt/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈɪtəreɪt/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈi-tə-ˌrāt/ (ame, mw)

iterate — verb

  • iteratepresent simple I / you / we / they
  • iterateshe / she / it
  • iteratedpast simple
  • iterating-ing form

1. to carry out a set of instructions or steps many times, particularly in computin

1.動詞及物 / 不及物B2
釋義

to carry out a set of instructions or steps many times, particularly in computing, so that each round builds on the result of the one before it.

例句

The script iterates over each file in the folder and checks the file size.

iterate + over [data structure]

Chen wrote a function that iterates through the user database to find inactive accounts.

iterate + through [collection]

同義詞
  • repeat

    more general, used in any context, not limited to computing

  • loop

    specific to programming; describes a set of instructions that runs repeatedly

文法句型

iterate + over [data structure]

iterate + through [collection]

iterate + noun phrase + [number of times]

用法筆記

Common in computing contexts with prepositions like 'over' or 'through' to describe what data is being processed. Can be used transitively (iterate a process) or intransitively (iterate over records).

常見錯誤

❌We need to iterate the report every week.
✅We need to iterate the testing process for each new version.
💡'iterate' is used for processes or steps, not for documents unless they are being processed by code.

2. to state or do a thing more than one time, typically to make sure people notice

2.動詞及物C1
釋義

to state or do a thing more than one time, typically to make sure people notice or understand it properly.

例句

The coach iterated the team rules before every practice session.

iterate + noun phrase (formal register for repeated instruction)

Hassan iterated his request for a quieter room until the hotel staff finally moved him.

同義詞
  • reiterate

    very similar in meaning and formality, often with a sense of emphasis

  • repeat

    more common and less formal; suitable for everyday speech

反義詞
  • stop

    cease doing something rather than doing it again

文法句型

iterate + noun phrase

iterate + noun phrase + [adverbial of frequency]

用法筆記

More formal than simply saying 'repeat'. Often used when someone repeats something for emphasis or in a public or professional setting. Similar in tone to 'reiterate'.

常見錯誤

❌Please iterate your sentence.
✅Please repeat your sentence.
💡'iterate' is too formal for simple repetition in everyday conversation.