Equation

ɪˈkweɪʒən

nounmedium🔥Very CommonConcept
2 meanings2 idioms/phrases3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A statement that the values of two mathematical expressions are equal (indicated by the symbol =).

ɪˈkweɪʒən

nounneutralmedium
Concept

A mathematical statement that two expressions are equal.

We need to solve the equation to find the unknown variable.

💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to find the solution to a puzzle where two things have the same value. For example, 2 + 2 = 4 is an equation! It tells us that the stuff on one side is the same as the stuff on the other side.

👶 For kids: A sentence that says two things are the same. Like, 1+1=2. That's an equation!

More Examples

2

The physicist used several complex equations to model the experiment.

3

This equation describes the relationship between pressure and volume.

4

Students are taught to balance equations to solve the problems.

How It's Used

Mathematics

"The quadratic equation can be solved using the quadratic formula."

Science

"Einstein's famous equation, E=mc², describes the relationship between energy and mass."

2

A situation or problem in which several factors must be considered.

ɪˈkweɪʒən

nounneutralAdvanced
Situation

A situation in which several factors must be considered.

The equation of success in business requires dedication and strategic planning.

💡 Simply: Sometimes, 'equation' can describe a tough situation with a bunch of things going on, and you're trying to find the best solution. It's like a puzzle, but it's real life!

👶 For kids: A problem with lots of things to think about to make it better.

More Examples

2

Finding a peaceful solution to the conflict is a complex equation.

3

The new policy has changed the equation of success.

4

It’s a tricky equation, trying to find a balance between work and personal life.

How It's Used

General Usage

"Finding a solution to the equation of climate change requires international cooperation."

Politics

"The complex equation of political stability involves economic factors and social harmony."

Tip:Think about balancing multiple things in a complex situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Idioms & expressions

solve an equation

To find the solution to a mathematical equation.

"The students were tasked with solving a series of complex equations."

the equation of...

A complex situation or problem relating to a specific subject.

"The equation of happiness involves a mix of financial stability, health, and relationships."

From Latin *aequātiō* (“a making equal”), from *aequāre* (“to make equal”), from *aequus* (“equal”).

The term 'equation' was used in early mathematical texts to denote an equality between quantities. Early usage dates to the 16th and 17th century, as mathematical notation developed.

Memory tip

Think of balancing both sides on a scale: they must be equal.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"a making equal"

solve an equationmathematical equationsimple equationcomplex equationthe equation of...

Common misspellings

equasionequasionequaution

Usage

20%Spoken
80%Written