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Multiplier Meaning: Definition and Examples

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multiplier

[ˈmʌltɪˌplaɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematical

A number by which another number is multiplied.

Synonyms

factor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
multiplier

Used in mathematics or economics to describe a number by which another number is multiplied.

  • In the equation 2x = y, 2 is the multiplier.
  • The investment acted as a multiplier for economic growth.
factor

Refers to an element or component that contributes to a particular result or situation.

  • Weather is a major factor in that region.
  • His experience was a key factor in his promotion.

Examples of usage

  • The multiplier of 5 in the expression 5 x 3 is 3.
  • In the equation 2 x 4 = 8, the multiplier is 2.
Context #2 | Noun

business

A factor or number by which a cost is multiplied to determine the selling price.

Synonyms

markup, profit margin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
multiplier

Use in mathematical or financial contexts where an amount is increased by a certain factor.

  • To find the total cost, multiply the base price by the multiplier.
  • The economic growth multiplier effect shows how investments can impact the economy.
markup

Refers to the amount added to the cost price of goods to cover overhead and profit. Commonly used in retail business and pricing strategies.

  • The markup on these shoes is 50%.
  • We need to increase the markup to cover the rising costs.
profit margin

Used in financial and business contexts to describe the percentage of revenue that exceeds the costs of production. Indicates the profitability of a company.

  • Our profit margin for the last quarter was 20%.
  • We need to find ways to improve our profit margin.

Examples of usage

  • The company uses a multiplier of 1.5 to calculate the retail price of their products.
  • The profit margin is determined by the multiplier applied to the production cost.
Context #3 | Noun

technology

A value that is used to determine the final size or scale of an image or design.

Synonyms

resizing value, scaling factor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
multiplier

This term is generally used in mathematics, economics, and finance to describe a number by which another number is multiplied, often indicating growth or amplification.

  • The economic multiplier effect can significantly impact GDP growth.
  • In calculations, use the multiplier to determine the total amount.

Examples of usage

  • The graphic designer adjusted the multiplier to increase the size of the logo.
  • By changing the multiplier, the dimensions of the object can be altered.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In math, a multiplier is a number that you multiply another number by to find a larger total.
  • Using a multiplier can help us calculate areas, like if you want to find the size of a garden by multiplying length and width.
  • In economics, the term refers to factors that can magnify spending in an economy, leading to a larger impact than the initial amount.

Technology

  • In computer science, multipliers are essential for performing arithmetic operations in algorithms and calculations more efficiently.
  • Digital circuits often use multiplier circuits, allowing computers to perform complex calculations quickly.
  • Video games use multipliers for scoring, where players can earn more points for achieving certain tasks.

Business

  • In finance, a multiplier can refer to how much a company's earnings increase with a given increase in sales.
  • Marketing strategies often employ multipliers to maximize the effectiveness of ad spending, measuring the return on investment.
  • In real estate, a property’s value can be derived using a multiplier based on its rental income potential.

Education

  • Teachers often use visual aids, like arrays, to explain the concept of multiples and how multipliers work.
  • Games and fun exercises that use multipliers can help students understand multiplication in a relatable way.
  • The multiplier effect is a teaching tool used in economics to explain how initial spending can lead to greater overall economic growth.

Psychology

  • In behavior science, understanding how certain factors act as multipliers can help increase positive behaviors in individuals.
  • Research shows that environment can act as a multiplier for motivation, where supportive surroundings enhance performance.
  • Cognitive biases, like the 'bandwagon effect', can serve as multipliers in social situations, increasing the likelihood of conformity.

Origin of 'multiplier'

The word 'multiplier' originates from the Latin word 'multiplicare', which means 'to increase' or 'to make many'. The concept of multiplication has been used in mathematics for centuries, with the term 'multiplier' being commonly used to refer to a number that is multiplied by another number. In business, the term 'multiplier' is often used to calculate profits or pricing strategies. In technology, it is used to adjust the scale or size of images or designs. The versatility of the word 'multiplier' makes it an essential part of various fields and disciplines.

See also: multiplication, multiplicity, multiply, multiplying.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,423, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.