Algorithmus
[ˌalɡoˈʀɪtmʊs]masculine
The English word 'algorithm' is translated into German as Algorithmus.
An algorithm is a well-defined procedure. You can use the phrase Der Algorithmus hat einen Fehler. to express that there is an error or bug in the algorithm. To say you are working on a new algorithm, you would say Ich arbeite an einem neuen Algorithmus. Additionally, Welcher Algorithmus ist besser? translates to 'Which algorithm is better?'
Meaning: well-defined procedure (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
Algorithmus is a masculine noun. The plural form is Algorithmen. In the singular, the accusative form is den Algorithmus and the genitive form is des Algorithmus.
Did you know?
- While the word sounds like a direct descendant of 'arithmetic', it actually traces back to the name of a Persian mathematician, al-Khwarizmi.
- In German, the plural form Algorithmen changes the ending from -us to -en, which is typical for many masculine nouns borrowed from Latin.
- The German word Algorithmus follows a strict capitalization rule where all nouns must start with an uppercase letter, regardless of where they appear in a sentence.
Examples in context
- Irgendwie spielt mir der Algorithmus jetzt noch mehr von diesem Zeug zu.Somehow I've gotten in the algorithm of getting even more of these things.Tatoeba #13967668 by Waldelfe, translation #13967667 by Waldelfe
- Dann können wir den Algorithmus fortsetzen.Then we can continue the algorithm.Tatoeba #6970489 by cojiluc, translation #6970490 by cojiluc
- Mein Algorithmus hat eine Erfolgsquote von 99 %.My algorithm has a 99% success rate.Tatoeba #974722 by MUIRIEL, translation #583952 by FeuDRenais2
- Die Software verwendet einen komplexen Algorithmus, um Daten effizient zu verarbeiten.The software uses a complex algorithm to process data efficiently.
- Die Berechnung erfolgt mithilfe eines mathematischen Rechenverfahrens.The calculation is performed using a mathematical algorithm.
- Dieses Verfahren ermöglicht es der KI, Muster in den Daten zu erkennen.This algorithm allows the AI to recognize patterns in the data.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are discussing a programming project at work.
- LukasHast du den neuen Algorithmus bereits getestet?Have you already tested the new algorithm?
- HannahJa, Lukas, er funktioniert einwandfrei.Yes, Lukas, it works perfectly.
- LukasDas ist gut, denn der Algorithmus ist wichtig.That is good, because the algorithm is important.
- HannahIch werde ihn morgen noch einmal prüfen.I will check it once more tomorrow.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “algorithm” translations and entries Algorithmus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Algorithmus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.