utility function
nounA utility function is a math rule that shows how much someone likes or prefers different things.
The economist used a utility function to show that the child preferred ice cream over broccoli.
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OTHER MEANINGS
2. In computer science, a utility function is a way to score how good a result or state is so a program can pick the best one.
The game's AI uses a utility function to decide which move gives the highest score.
3. In philosophy, a utility function can describe how a person ranks outcomes by how much good they bring.
Philosophers debate whether a single utility function can capture everyone's values.
4. In everyday speech, a utility function is any practical tool or formula that helps measure usefulness.
The team built a simple utility function to rank which features users found most helpful.