Meaning & use

factor

noun·Academic

A number multiplied by another number to produce a product; for integers, a factor divides another integer without a remainder.

See it in a sentence

In 3 × 8 = 24, both 3 and 8 are factors of 24.

Five is a factor of 30 because 30 ÷ 5 is a whole number.

A note on using this word

In elementary whole-number work, factors of a number usually means its positive whole-number factors.

Words with a similar meaning

This term is best learned through its definition and examples.

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

Something that contributes to a result or decision.

Travel time was a major factor in choosing the location.

Make it your own

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