Words / B2

i-KWAYZHN/ɪˈkweɪʒn/

An equation is a mathematical statement of equality, or the set of factors in a situation: solve the equation; cost is only one part of the equation. Formula is related but not identical. Do not call a recipe an equation. In essays, the political equation means the balance of factors. Equate is the verb (equate X with Y).

Meaning

A mathematical statement that two amounts are equal; also the set of factors in a situation.

Examples

• “Cost is only one part of the equation when families choose a school.”
• “Rearrange the equation before you substitute the values, which is the maths sense.”

Good to know

solve / rearrange an equation; part of the equation. Verb: equate X with Y. Related: formula. Not a cooking recipe.

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