Formula Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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formula

[หˆfษ”หmjสŠlษ™ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A mathematical expression that represents a rule or law. It consists of symbols, numbers, and operators such as +, -, *, /.

Synonyms

equation, expression, rule.

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Word Description / Examples
formula

Used in mathematics, science, and engineering to represent a general principle or relationship with variables.

  • The formula for calculating the area of a circle is ฯ€rยฒ.
  • She used a chemical formula to determine the solution's concentration.
equation

Specific to mathematics and science, where it represents a statement that two expressions are equal.

  • To solve this math problem, you need to balance the equation.
  • Einstein's famous equation, E=mcยฒ, shows the relationship between energy and mass.
expression

Refers to mathematical phrases that can include numbers, variables, and operators, but it does not have an equality sign.

  • Simplify the expression by combining like terms.
  • In algebra, you often work with expressions containing variables.
rule

Describes a guideline or principle that explains how something works or how something should be done.

  • A rule in grammar states that a sentence must have a subject and a predicate.
  • The company's rule is to submit reports by the end of each month.

Examples of usage

  • The formula for calculating the area of a circle is A = ฯ€rยฒ.
  • The quadratic formula is used to solve equations of the form axยฒ + bx + c = 0.
Context #2 | Noun

chemistry

A symbolic representation of a chemical compound showing the elements and their ratios. It provides information about the composition of the compound.

Synonyms

chemical notation, molecular formula.

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Word Description / Examples
formula

General situations where a mathematical or scientific rule is being expressed using symbols. It is a broad term that can apply to many fields such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, and economics.

  • The formula for calculating the area of a circle is A = ฯ€r^2
  • Newton's second law of motion is expressed in the formula F = ma
chemical notation

Primarily used in the context of chemistry to describe the symbolic representation of chemical compounds and reactions. This includes elements, chemical bonds, and their relative positions.

  • The chemical notation for water is H2O
  • The reaction for the combustion of methane can be written using chemical notation as CH4 + 2O2 -> CO2 + 2H2O
molecular formula

Specifically used in chemistry to denote the types and numbers of atoms in a molecule. It provides a simple count of each type of atom in a molecule without showing how the atoms are bonded or arranged.

  • The molecular formula of glucose is C6H12O6
  • Knowing the molecular formula helps in identifying the basic components of the compound

Examples of usage

  • The chemical formula for water is H2O.
  • NaCl is the formula for table salt.
Context #3 | Noun

general

A set of instructions or steps to achieve a specific result or outcome.

Synonyms

approach, method, recipe.

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Word Description / Examples
formula

Used in scientific, mathematical, or technical contexts to describe a fixed way of doing something or solving a problem.

  • She derived a new formula to calculate the speed of the reaction
  • The formula for water is H2O
recipe

Typically used in cooking to describe a set of instructions for preparing a particular dish. It can be used metaphorically in informal contexts.

  • She tried a new recipe for chocolate cake
  • Hard work and dedication are the recipe for success
method

Similar to 'formula', but often used with a broader sense of systematic procedures. It can pertain to scientific, technical, or everyday activities.

  • The scientific method is essential in research
  • This cooking method ensures even heating
approach

Refers to the way or manner in which someone deals with a situation or problem, often more general and flexible. Suitable for business, personal, or educational contexts.

  • Her approach to teaching is very interactive
  • We need a new approach to reduce expenses

Examples of usage

  • The formula for success includes hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
  • There is no one-size-fits-all formula for happiness.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, a formula represents the elements in a compound, like H2O for water, showing the number of atoms of each element.
  • Mathematical formulas allow scientists and mathematicians to describe relationships, such as the area of a circle: A = ฯ€rยฒ.
  • Formulas are essential in producing medicines, as they specify the exact amounts of ingredients needed for safe consumption.

Literature

  • Many authors use formulaic writing styles to create familiar patterns in storytelling, making stories predictable yet enjoyable.
  • The term 'formula' can refer to commonly accepted themes or plots, like the 'hero's journey', found in many classic tales.
  • In poetry, a formulaic use of meter and rhyme can create memorable verses that resonate with readers.

Education

  • Formulas are often introduced in school to help students solve problems in math and science, teaching analytical thinking skills.
  • Learning how to apply formulas can develop a child's confidence and familiarity with reasoning and problem-solving.
  • Teachers use various formulas to assess studentsโ€™ performance, creating standardized measures that can be compared.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, 'formulaic' plots often refer to predictable narratives that audiences find comforting, like rom-coms or superhero films.
  • Video games often use formulas to calculate scores, health points, and in-game items, keeping players engaged through familiar mechanics.
  • The concept of 'formulas' extends to music, where artists may rely on popular structures or chord progressions to create hit songs.

Origin of 'formula'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'formula', meaning 'a small form' or 'a set form of words'.
  • In ancient Rome, a 'formula' referred to legal procedures or rules about how things should be done.
  • Over time, the meaning evolved to include mathematical expressions and scientific equations.

The word 'formula' originates from the Latin word 'formula' meaning 'a small pattern'. It was first used in English in the 1630s to refer to a prescribed set form of words for use in a ceremony or procedure. Over time, the term evolved to encompass mathematical expressions, chemical representations, and general instructions for achieving specific results.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,231, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.