asynchronous operation
- noun
- /eɪˈsɪŋkrənəs ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
- Specialized
- In programming, asynchronous operations allow execution of code that doesn't require the preceding operations to complete first.
Examples
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Within asynchronous operations, the CAP will request services of the DAC to perform functions such as hashing, DES encryption, random number generation, and other synchronous operations.
Academic text (1999) -
Simultaneous synchronous and asynchronous operation execution. Logical and physical security. Key storage. Fault-tolerant design.
Academic text (1999) -
This implementation supports simultaneous processing of both synchronous and asynchronous operations in the SCM.
Academic text (1999) -
As a result of this compression, asynchronous operation, and load averaging, the same information bandwidth that supports low-resolution analog TV can support much higher resolution digital TV.
Academic text (1999) -
Communication between the CPU and the SCM for these asynchronous operations is executed by means of messages that pass through a queue and are sent to and from the SCM.
Academic text (1999) -
These asynchronous operations include public key algorithm (PKA) functions, intended for use by application programs; and public key security control (PKSC) functions, which replace the physical security controls provided on ICRF.
Academic text (1999) -
The application can handle asynchronous operations to improve user experience by processing tasks in the background.
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With asynchronous operations, the system is able to send a request and immediately continue other tasks without waiting for a response.
Antonyms
- Specialized
An operation that follows a regular clock so events happen at expected times
How Synchronous
- Specialized
- Specialized
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly compositional: 'asynchronous' (occurring at different times) simply modifies 'operation' (a process), so a learner who knows both words can infer an operation that runs independently or at different times. This is a standard, non-idiomatic technical collocation (and parallels exist in many languages), making it immediately understandable from its parts.
Etymology
Asynchronous operation paints a simple picture: imagine starting a task and walking away to do other things, because asynchronous means 'not at the same time' and operation means a task. So the phrase means a task that runs 'independently' and 'without waiting' and does not stop other work.