ad hoc programming

[/æd hɑk ˈproʊɡræmɪŋ/]
noun
programação ad hoc
1. A programming approach where code is written to solve immediate problems without following a structured plan, design pattern, or long-term architecture
The startup relied on ad hoc programming to quickly prototype their MVP before securing funding.
A startup confiou em programação ad hoc para prototipagem rápida do MVP antes de conseguir financiamento.
2. Writing code on-the-fly without proper documentation, testing frameworks, or consideration for maintainability and scalability
Ad hoc programming might solve the immediate issue, but it creates technical debt for future developers.
Programação ad hoc pode resolver o problema imediato, mas cria débito técnico para desenvolvedores futuros.
In Brazilian tech culture, ad hoc programming is often criticized in formal settings but pragmatically accepted in startups and rapid prototyping contexts. The term reflects the tension between quick delivery and software quality—a common challenge in the competitive Latin American tech scene. In Portugal, the term is equally recognized in academic and professional contexts with similar connotations.
NYC Slang
quick fix coding, duct-tape solution
Synonyms / Sinônimos
quick-and-dirty programmingimprovised codinghacky programmingspaghetti codecowboy coding
Antonyms / Antônimos
structured programmingplanned developmentarchitecture-driven developmentsystematic programming

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
programação ad hoc
Most common translation; used in tech industry and academia
Portugal
programação ad hoc
Same as Brazil; technical term widely understood in Portuguese-speaking tech communities
Brazil - Informal
programação na gambiarra
Colloquial Brazilian expression meaning improvised or makeshift programming
Brazil - Tech Community
código rápido e sujo
Literal translation of 'quick and dirty code'; common among developers

Related Words

technical debtcode refactoringsoftware architecturebest practicesdesign patternsagile methodology

Related Idioms & Phrases

programação de panela (pot programming - improvised)
código de emergência (emergency code)
solução de gambiarra (makeshift solution)
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