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Meaning & use

equation

noun·Academic

Last updated

UK/ɪˈkweɪʒn/
US/ɪˈkweɪʒn/

Meanings

  1. nouncountablemathematics

    A statement in mathematics or science that two expressions are equal, usually using an equals sign and often with unknown quantities.

    Grammar: Countable: solve an equation, write three equations.

    Patterns

    • solve an equation
    • an equation for something

    The students had to solve the equation 2x + 3 = 11.

    Newton's equation relates force, mass and acceleration.

    She wrote the chemical equation for burning methane on the board.

  2. nounsingularfigurative

    A situation in which several factors affect each other and must be balanced or taken into account.

    Grammar: Used figuratively, usually with the: the human side of the equation.

    Patterns

    • part of the equation
    • enter the equation

    When money enters the equation, friendships can become complicated.

    Cost is only one part of the equation when choosing a school.

    Leave emotion out of the equation and think logically.

Word forms

pluralequations

Common combinations

solve an equation
It took me ten minutes to solve the equation.
quadratic equation
A quadratic equation can have two solutions.
balance an equation
In chemistry, you must balance an equation.
enter the equation
Safety must enter the equation when planning the trip.
part of the equation
Salary is just one part of the equation.

Synonyms and how they differ

formula
A formula is a rule for calculating something, often with variables, while an equation states that two sides are equal.
expression
An expression is a mathematical phrase without an equals sign, so it is not a complete equation.
calculation
Calculation is the process of working something out and does not mean the statement itself.
factor
A factor is a single element influencing a result, whereas the figurative equation is the whole balance of factors.

Opposites

inequality

Word family

equate verb
to treat one thing as equal to another
equal adjective
the same in size, amount or value
equality noun
the state of being equal
equational adjective
relating to an equation (rare)

Commonly confused: equation or formula?

equation vs formula

A formula gives a method for calculating, such as area equals length times width, whereas an equation says two things are equal and can be solved.

Practice

In the sentence 'Weather is another part of the equation when planning an outdoor wedding,' equation means ___.

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