Brute force may refer to any of several problem-solving methods involving the evaluation of multiple (or every) possible answer(s) for fitness. The term has also been used as a stage name, book title, etc.
In mathematics:
- A problem solving technique where a series of possible answers are worked out and each possibility is tested for accuracy. This technique is particularly useful on multiple choice problems.
- A problem solving technique using workaround methods such as scale diagrams instead of conventional algebra.
- Proof by exhaustion or brute force method, a method of mathematical proof
Non-mathematical problem-solving methods:
- Brute-force search, a trivial computer problem-solving technique
- Brute-force attack, a method of defeating a cryptographic scheme by trying a large number of possibilities
Media and entertainment:
- Brute Force (musician), the stage name of Stephen Friedland
- Brute Force (book), a controversial work by historian John Ellis
- Brute Force (1914 film), starring Harry Carey
- Brute Force (1947 film), starring Burt Lancaster
- Brute Force (video game), a video game
- Brute Force (comics), Simon Furman’s comic about super-intelligent cyborg animals saving the environment
Famous quotes containing the words brute and/or force:
“A chaplain is the minister of the Prince of Peace serving the host of the God of WarMars. As such, he is as incongruous as a musket would be on the altar at Christmas. Why, then, is he there? Because he indirectly subserves the purpose attested by the cannon; because too he lends the sanction of the religion of the meek to that which practically is the abrogation of everything but brute Force.”
—Herman Melville (18191891)
“What I am anxious to do is to get the best bill possible with the least amount of friction.... I wish to avoid [splitting our party]. I shall do all in my power to retain the corporation tax as it is now and also force a reduction of the [tariff] schedules. It is only when all other efforts fail that Ill resort to headlines and force the people into this fight.”
—William Howard Taft (18571930)