Lossy compression is a data encoding method that throws out some of the original information in order to achieve smaller file sizes. It's commonly used for images, audio, and video, where minor quality loss is often unnoticeable to human perception - perfect for saving bandwidth while streaming the latest episode of Silicon Valley.

How to use it in a sentence

• I tried to upload my 4K vacation video to the cloud, but even with lossy compression, it's still going to take longer than compiling a React app on a Raspberry Pi.

• The product manager insisted on using lossy compression for all the user-uploaded profile pictures to save on storage costs, but now everyone looks like they're auditioning for a role in Minecraft.

If you actually want to learn more...

• Lossy Compression - Wikipedia: The Wikipedia article provides a comprehensive overview of lossy compression, explaining the concepts, techniques, and common use cases in an easily digestible format.

• What is Lossy Compression? - HowToGeek: This HowToGeek article breaks down lossy compression for a more general audience, using practical examples and comparisons to help readers understand when and why it's used.

• Lossy vs. Lossless Compression - CloudFlare: CloudFlare's learning center article compares lossy and lossless compression, focusing on their application in video encoding and streaming, which is perfect if you're building the next TikTok competitor.

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