expression-based programming

noun
UK /ɪkˈspreʃ.ən beɪst ˈprəʊ.ɡræm.ɪŋ/
US /ɪkˈspreʃ.ən beɪst ˈproʊ.ɡræm.ɪŋ/

A way of making computer programs where you mostly write little math-like phrases that give back answers.

In expression-based programming, you build the whole program by joining small expressions together.

SYNONYMS

expression-oriented programmingfunctional programmingdeclarative programmingformula-based coding

RELATED WORDS

expressionfunctionlambda calculusevaluationsyntax

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A coding style where every piece of code produces a value.

Languages like Lisp and Haskell are famous for expression-based programming.

3. Writing software by combining formulas instead of step-by-step commands.

Spreadsheet tools use a simple form of expression-based programming.

4. A teaching approach that shows learners how small expressions build big programs.

The class started with expression-based programming before moving to loops.