sequential scanning: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical, Academic, Business
Quick answer
What does “sequential scanning” mean?
A process of examining or reviewing items, data, or information one after another in a specific, predetermined order.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A process of examining or reviewing items, data, or information one after another in a specific, predetermined order.
In computing, a method of accessing data where each element in a sequence is examined in turn, as opposed to random access. Also used metaphorically for any systematic, step-by-step review process.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant semantic difference. The compound form is standard in both variants. American texts may use 'scanning' more frequently in broader contexts.
Connotations
Neutral in both varieties.
Frequency
More common in technical and computing contexts globally.
Grammar
How to Use “sequential scanning” in a Sentence
NP[subject] + perform/use/require + sequential scanning + of NP[object]Sequential scanning + is/be + ADJ[necessary/slow] + for NP[purpose]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sequential scanning” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The programme will sequentially scan the memory blocks.
- We need to sequentially scan the archive.
American English
- The program will sequentially scan the memory blocks.
- We need to sequentially scan the archive.
adverb
British English
- The data is processed sequentially, not in parallel.
- The system reads the tape sequentially.
American English
- The data is processed sequentially, not in parallel.
- The system reads the tape sequentially.
adjective
British English
- They developed a new sequential-scanning algorithm.
- The sequential scanning process is a bottleneck.
American English
- They developed a new sequential-scanning algorithm.
- The sequential scanning process is a bottleneck.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
The audit involves a sequential scanning of all transaction logs from the last quarter.
Academic
The algorithm's performance degrades due to its reliance on sequential scanning of the entire dataset.
Everyday
I did a sequential scanning of the shelves from left to right but still couldn't find the book.
Technical
The file system uses sequential scanning to locate free blocks, which is efficient for append-only operations.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sequential scanning”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sequential scanning”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sequential scanning”
- Using it to mean 'quick glance' (scanning alone can mean this, but 'sequential scanning' is always methodical).
- Confusing it with 'skimming' which is for main ideas, not detailed examination.
- Misspelling as 'sequencial'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. It is often slower than indexed or parallel methods for large datasets, but it can be efficient and simple for small datasets or linearly stored data like tapes.
Yes. It can describe any physical inspection process done in order, such as a mechanic checking parts on an assembly line or a security guard reviewing CCTV footage frame by frame.
'Scanning' can be quick and broad. 'Sequential scanning' specifies that the process follows a strict, pre-defined order (e.g., from first to last, top to bottom).
No. While its most precise and common use is in computing and data processing, it is productively used in business, research, and other fields to describe any ordered, item-by-item review.
A process of examining or reviewing items, data, or information one after another in a specific, predetermined order.
Sequential scanning is usually technical, academic, business in register.
Sequential scanning: in British English it is pronounced /sɪˈkwen.ʃəl ˈskæn.ɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /sɪˈkwen.ʃəl ˈskæn.ɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a librarian checking books on a shelf ONE BY ONE (SEQUENCE) by looking at each spine (SCANNING).
Conceptual Metaphor
A LINE or a CONVEYOR BELT, where items pass by a single inspection point in order.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'sequential scanning' LEAST likely to be used?