Artificial intelligence vs Machine learning

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Artificial intelligence

Top 5,000 (fairly common)

Machine learning

Top 2,000 (common)
Most common: Machine learning
 Artificial intelligenceMachine learning
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl ˌɪnˈtɛlɪdʒəns//🇺🇸 //ˌɑːrtəˈfɪʃəl ˌɪnˈtɛlɪdʒəns//🇬🇧 //məˈʃiːn ˈlɜːnɪŋ//🇺🇸 //məˈʃin ˈlɜrnɪŋ//
MeaningWhen computers do tasks that usually need human thinking.A way for computers to learn from data and improve over time without being programmed.
ExampleExperts believe that artificial intelligence will transform many industries.Machine learning techniques can improve forecasts for stock prices.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 5,000 (fairly common)Top 2,000 (common)
Collocationsdevelop artificial intelligence, implement artificial intelligence, impact of artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence technology, artificial intelligence applicationssupervised learning, unsupervised learning, neural networks
Common mistakesConfusing it with just basic computer programming., Thinking it only refers to robots, not software., Using it in informal settings where simpler terms are better.Confusing with 'artificial intelligence' (AI) - machine learning is a subset of AI., Using it as a verb - it's a noun phrase., Mispronouncing 'learning' as 'learni' - ensure the 'ng' is pronounced.
Usage notesUse 'artificial intelligence' in technical discussions, business contexts, or when explaining advanced technologies. Avoid using it in casual conversation unless relevant.Use 'machine learning' in technical or academic contexts. Avoid informal speech unless explaining to a layperson.

See it in real clips

Artificial intelligence

Frequently asked questions: Artificial intelligence vs Machine learning

What's the difference between Artificial intelligence and Machine learning?

Artificial intelligence: When computers do tasks that usually need human thinking. Machine learning: A way for computers to learn from data and improve over time without being programmed.

Which is more common: Artificial intelligence and Machine learning?

Machine learning is the most common in everyday English.

Can you show an example of each?

Artificial intelligence: Experts believe that artificial intelligence will transform many industries. Machine learning: Machine learning techniques can improve forecasts for stock prices.

Can I use Artificial intelligence and Machine learning interchangeably?

Not always. Artificial intelligence and Machine learning are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.