busy loop

[ˈbɪzi ˈluːp]
nounpl: busy loops
loop ocupado
1. A programming construct where a loop continuously executes without performing any useful work, typically consuming CPU resources while waiting for a condition to change
The developer accidentally created a busy loop that caused the application to freeze and use 100% CPU.
O desenvolvedor acidentalmente criou um loop ocupado que fez a aplicação congelar e usar 100% de CPU.
2. An inefficient waiting mechanism where a process repeatedly checks a condition in a tight loop rather than using interrupts or blocking operations
Instead of using a busy loop to wait for user input, the program should implement proper event handling.
Em vez de usar um loop ocupado para aguardar entrada do usuário, o programa deveria implementar manipulação de eventos apropriada.
This is primarily a technical term used in computer science and software engineering contexts in both English and Portuguese-speaking countries. It's more prevalent in professional programming discussions, academic settings, and technical documentation. The term reflects common programming pitfalls that developers must learn to avoid for optimal system performance.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
spin looptight looppolling loopactive waiting
Antonyms / Antônimos
blocking waitinterrupt-driven waitsleepevent-driven programming

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
loop ocupado
Most common technical term in Brazilian Portuguese programming contexts
General Brazilian
ciclo ativo
Alternative technical translation emphasizing active cycling
Portugal
ciclo ocupado
Portuguese variant using 'ciclo' instead of 'loop'
General Technical
busy waiting
Often used interchangeably with busy loop in technical documentation

Related Words

CPU utilizationthread schedulingevent looppollingcontext switchingdeadlock

Related Idioms & Phrases

get stuck in a busy loop
break out of a busy loop
avoid busy loop patterns
a busy loop situation
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