Plain-English AI definitions for legal professionals. For what bars actually require, see the Legal AI Compliance Register.
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Deep learning

Core concepts Last reviewed 2026-06-11

Definition A type of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks with many layers to learn complex patterns from large amounts of data. It underlies modern image recognition, speech recognition, and language models.

In more depth

Deep learning networks pass data through stacked layers of simple mathematical units, with each layer learning progressively more abstract features—edges become shapes, words become meanings. The approach became dominant in the 2010s as computing power and available data grew, and it is the technology behind transformers and large language models. Its results are powerful but difficult to interpret, which is one reason explaining exactly why an AI system reached a particular conclusion can be hard.

Further reading: Wikipedia.

Related terms

Machine learning (ML)TransformerLarge language model (LLM)

About the editor: MHSB Solutions, Research desk. MHSB Solutions is not a law firm. This glossary is educational information, not legal advice.

Educational information, not legal advice. AI terminology and tools change quickly; definitions reflect usage as of the last-updated date. For what bar associations and courts actually require of lawyers using AI, see legalaicompliance.help and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.