Equation

Definition

Equation refers to a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions. It is typically presented in the form of two expressions separated by an equals sign (=). An equation can also describe a situation or problem where different elements must be balanced or compared.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈkweɪʒən/
• Respelling: ih-KWAY-zhuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈkweɪʒən/
• Respelling: ih-KWAY-zhuhn

The pronunciation of "equation" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "equation" comes from the Latin word "aequationem," which means "a making equal" or "an equal distribution." It is derived from "aequare," meaning "to make equal," which in turn comes from "aequus," meaning "equal" or "even."

Derivatives

• Equate (verb)
• Equational (adjective)
• Equative (adjective)
• Inequation (noun)
• Equationless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Equality
• Formula
• Balance

Antonyms

• Inequality
• Disparity
• Imbalance

Usage

The word "equation" is primarily used in mathematics and science to describe a statement that shows the equality of two expressions. It is also used metaphorically in everyday language to describe a situation where different factors must be balanced or compared.

Related Terms

• Inequality: A mathematical statement that shows the relationship between two expressions that are not equal.
• Variable: A symbol used to represent a quantity that can change in an equation.
• Expression: A combination of symbols that represents a value, but does not include an equality sign.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A mathematical statement asserting the equality of two expressions: Refers to a statement in mathematics where two expressions are shown to be equal, often including variables.
  • Example: "The equation \(2x + 3 = 7\) can be solved to find the value of \(x\)."
• A situation or problem where different elements must be balanced: Refers to a scenario in which various factors need to be considered or balanced.
  • Example: "In any business equation, cost, time, and quality are crucial factors."