English · Science & Technology

heuristic

/hjʊəˈrɪs.tɪk/

[/hjʊəˈrɪs.tɪk/]

practical shortcut

Advancednoun

Definition

A practical method or mental shortcut that helps find a good enough solution quickly.

Example

Using a simple heuristic, shoppers often judge quality by price alone.

Using a simple heuristic, shoppers often judge quality by price alone.

Etymology

From Greek 'heuriskein' (to find).

How & Where It’s Used

Used in computer science, psychology, and decision theory.

Watch “practical shortcut” pronunciation on YouTube
problem-solvingpsychology

Related Terms