Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Factor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ข
Add to dictionary

factor

[หˆfรฆktษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A factor is a number that divides another number without leaving a remainder. In other words, it is a whole number that can be multiplied by another whole number to get the original number. Factors are essential in prime factorization and finding the greatest common factor (GCF) of two numbers.

Synonyms

dividend, divisor, multiple.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
factor

Used in mathematics to describe a number or algebraic expression that divides another number or expression evenly. It can also mean an element or component that contributes to a certain outcome in general contexts.

  • In the equation 2x = 6, 2 is a factor of 6.
  • Hard work is a key factor in achieving success.
divisor

Used in mathematics to describe the number by which another number (the dividend) is divided.

  • In the division 20 รท 4, 4 is the divisor.
multiple

In mathematics, it refers to a number that can be divided by another number without leaving a remainder. It can also mean something that occurs in more than one instance.

  • 15 is a multiple of 3.
  • The project requires multiple steps to complete.
dividend

In mathematics, this refers to the number that is being divided. In finance, it refers to a payment made by a company to its shareholders from its profits.

  • In the division 15 รท 3, 15 is the dividend.
  • The company declared a dividend of $1.50 per share.

Examples of usage

  • The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.
  • To find the factors of a number, you can list all the possible pairs of numbers that multiply to give the original number.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To factor means to break something down into its constituent parts or elements. It can also refer to finding the factors of a number in mathematics.

Synonyms

analyze, consider, incorporate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
factor

Used when referring to an element or component that contributes to a result or outcome.

  • Weather is a major factor in determining the success of an outdoor event.
  • We need to consider all the factors before making a decision.
consider

Used when thinking carefully about something, typically before making a decision.

  • Please consider my suggestion for the project.
  • We need to consider all potential risks before moving forward.
incorporate

Applied when including something as part of a whole, usually in a formal or systematic way.

  • We need to incorporate feedback from our users into the final design.
  • The new plan will incorporate changes suggested by the team.
analyze

Applied when examining something in detail to understand it better or to draw conclusions.

  • The scientist will analyze the data from the experiment.
  • Before we can solve the problem, we need to analyze it thoroughly.

Examples of usage

  • We need to factor in the cost of transportation when budgeting for the trip.
  • Factor the quadratic equation to solve for x.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, factors can refer to environmental conditions that affect the growth of organisms.
  • In chemistry, different factors can influence the rate of a reaction, such as temperature and concentration.
  • In health studies, factors like diet and exercise levels can determine a person's overall wellness.

Education

  • In teaching, identifying factors that affect learning can help create effective strategies for students.
  • Problem-solving often involves breaking down issues into factors to understand the root causes.
  • Group projects highlight how multiple factors, like teamwork and communication, affect success.

Mathematics

  • Factor trees are a visual way to break down numbers into their prime factors.
  • Algebra often involves finding factors of polynomials to simplify equations.
  • In statistics, factors are variables that can affect performance or results in an experiment.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often face factors that drive their decisions, such as love, revenge, or survival.
  • The term is used in business contexts, where market factors can affect success or failure of a product.
  • Music can explore various life factors, such as love, struggle, and joy, influencing songwriting themes.

Origin of 'factor'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'facere', meaning 'to do' or 'to make', indicating its role in bringing things together.
  • In mathematics, a 'factor' refers to a number that can divide another number without leaving a remainder.
  • The concept has expanded in various fields, signifying essential elements that influence outcomes.

The word 'factor' originated from the Latin word 'factor', which means 'doer' or 'maker'. In the 15th century, it was used in mathematics to denote a number that can divide another number. Over time, the term evolved to include the idea of breaking something down into parts or elements, both in mathematics and general contexts.

See also: fact, faction, facts, factual, factuality, factually.

Word Frequency Rank

At #874 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.