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variable schedule

[/ˈvɛriəbəl ˈskɛdʒuːl/]
nounpl: variable schedules
cronograma variável
1. A reinforcement schedule in behavioral psychology where rewards or reinforcements are given at unpredictable intervals or after an unpredictable number of responses
The slot machine operates on a variable schedule of reinforcement, paying out at random intervals.
A máquina caça-níqueis funciona com um cronograma variável de reforço, pagando em intervalos aleatórios.
2. A work or activity schedule that changes or varies according to circumstances rather than following a fixed pattern
Employees on a variable schedule have different shift times each week.
Funcionários com cronograma variável têm horários de trabalho diferentes a cada semana.
Synonyms
flexible scheduleirregular scheduleunpredictable schedulevariable ratio schedulevariable interval schedule
Antonyms
fixed scheduleregular schedulefixed ratio schedulefixed interval schedule

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
cronograma variável / escala variável
Most common usage in Brazil, especially in labor and behavioral contexts
São Paulo
escala flexível / horário variável
Common in business and HR contexts
Portugal
horário variável / escala variável
Portuguese preference for horário in work contexts

Related Idioms & Phrases

keep someone on a variable schedule
work a variable schedule
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