flow chart: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical, Business, Academic
Quick answer
What does “flow chart” mean?
A diagram showing the sequence of steps in a process, often using standard symbols connected by arrows.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A diagram showing the sequence of steps in a process, often using standard symbols connected by arrows.
Any graphical representation that maps out the progression or structure of a system, algorithm, decision path, or workflow. Used metaphorically to describe a clear, step-by-step plan.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or spelling. Both regions commonly use the unhyphenated form 'flowchart' as a single word, with 'flow chart' as a two-word variant.
Connotations
Identical in technical/business contexts.
Frequency
Slightly more common in US technical writing, but widely used in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “flow chart” in a Sentence
VERB + flow chart (create, draw, design)ADJECTIVE + flow chart (detailed, simple, process)flow chart + OF + NOUN (flow chart of the procedure)flow chart + FOR + NOUN/GERUND (flow chart for troubleshooting)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “flow chart” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to flowchart the new customer onboarding process.
- The analyst flowcharted the entire manufacturing sequence.
American English
- Let's flowchart the algorithm before we start coding.
- She flowcharted the decision matrix for clarity.
adverb
British English
- The steps were explained flowchart-style.
- He thinks very flowchart-ishly, in clear boxes and arrows.
American English
- She laid out the plan flowchart-wise.
- The instructions were presented rather flowchartedly.
adjective
British English
- He presented a flow-chart diagram of the supply chain.
- The flow-chart methodology is standard here.
American English
- We use flowchart symbols from the ANSI standard.
- The flowchart view in the software is very helpful.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to map out organisational procedures, approval processes, or customer service pathways.
Academic
Common in computer science (algorithms), engineering (system design), and social sciences (methodology).
Everyday
Rare. Might be used to explain a complex personal decision or a series of steps in a recipe or DIY project.
Technical
The primary domain. Used in software development, system analysis, quality control, and logic modelling.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “flow chart”
- Using 'flowchart' as a verb (e.g., 'Let's flowchart this'). The correct phrasing is 'create a flow chart of this'.
- Confusing with 'organigram' (organisation chart) which shows hierarchy, not process flow.
- Misspelling as 'flowcart' or 'flowshart'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both 'flow chart' and 'flowchart' are acceptable. In modern technical writing, 'flowchart' as a single word is increasingly common.
Its main purpose is to provide a visual, step-by-step representation of a process, system, or algorithm to improve understanding, analysis, and communication.
Yes. Standard flow chart symbols include a 'decision' diamond, which can create branches and loops, allowing the chart to represent iterative or recursive processes.
A flow chart shows a sequential, often linear, process with defined start/end points and decision paths. A mind map is a non-linear diagram for brainstorming and organising ideas around a central concept, showing relationships rather than sequence.
A diagram showing the sequence of steps in a process, often using standard symbols connected by arrows.
Flow chart is usually technical, business, academic in register.
Flow chart: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfləʊ ˌtʃɑːt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfloʊ ˌtʃɑːrt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Map it out like a flow chart.”
- “Life isn't a flow chart.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a river (FLOW) carrying boats along a set path. The CHART is the map of that path, showing all the turns and forks. A flow chart maps the 'flow' of a process.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PROCESS IS A JOURNEY (along a path with steps); LOGICAL THINKING IS SEEING A PATH; CLARITY IS VISUAL REPRESENTATION.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is a 'flow chart' LEAST likely to be used?