equation

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'equation' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are discussing algebraic equations, equations used to solve a problem or a set of mathematical equations which are related. For example: "To solve this problem, we need to use an equation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But in reality there is no balance here: the equation of fascism and communism secretly privileges fascism.

The Guardian

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 11.28pm BST23 28 ET27: With ALgeria goalkeeper Rais M'Bolhi out of the equation, Thomas Muller pulls the ball across the edge of the German penalty area.

The Guardian - Sport

The sad reality was that Dundee United's players were exhausted after such a mammoth effort during the season, with mental tiredness also entering the equation after the events of Hampden Park.

The Guardian - Sport

Wendi Murdoch becomes a curious wrinkle in the power equation – a way for Blair to see himself as having control of Murdoch, of joining with Wendi to handle him.

The Guardian - Opinion

Our mums and dads, and their mums and dads, were locked into ways of living that demanded children were written out of the equation.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's where the equation of quality and affordability works, because it's in those markets you can replicate what the company has done in China".

The Guardian - Tech

But Noi said Daodu was paying the price for his honesty: "He's the victim of a flawed, outdated process, which dehumanises and takes common sense out of the equation.

The Guardian

Inc are definitely on the indie side of the equation, but here in one chord change (it's in the refrain) they summon up the ghosts of Vandross and O'Neal and all that emotional delicacy that is straight R&B's stock in trade.

The Guardian - Music

Apparently, the issue of slavery, with all its attendant bearings on the troubled history of American politics, were not powder keg enough for Tarantino, who also decided to throw forced prostitution into the equation.

The Guardian - Film

Oral contraception flips these responses altogether; no longer ovulating at all, women prefer a masculine face, presumably because once the demands of reproduction are taken out of the equation, considerations such as cooperation are no longer so important (the Daily Mail reported this at the time as "Pill To Make You Fancy Russell Crowe").

The Guardian - Film

But if we miss the positive side of the equation, and don't support visionary African leaders to get things done, then we hold back the development that is the key to Africa's continued success.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "equation" as a synonym for 'problem'; reserve it for situations involving a balance or relationship between elements.

Common error

While "equation" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Opt for simpler terms like 'situation' or 'relationship' for clearer communication.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "equation" is as a noun. It refers to a statement of equality or a set of conditions that must be met. Ludwig examples show it used in mathematical and abstract contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "equation" is a versatile noun used to describe a statement of equality or a balanced relationship between elements. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. While primarily found in News & Media and Science, it also appears in Formal & Business settings. To ensure clarity, consider the context and choose simpler alternatives like "relationship" or "formula" in informal scenarios. Avoid overusing "equation" and make sure the connection to balance or relationships is clear. Ludwig examples demonstrate its frequent use in authoritative sources like The Guardian and The Economist.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mathematical formula

Replaces "equation" with a more specific term, emphasizing its mathematical nature.

state of equality

Replaces "equation" with a phrase highlighting the aspect of equality.

mathematical statement

Replaces "equation" with a more formal and general term.

balancing act

Conveys the idea of achieving equilibrium, similar to solving an "equation".

set of conditions

Highlights the requirements that must be met, analogous to the constraints in an "equation".

calculation

Focuses on the process of finding a solution, akin to solving an "equation".

relationship

Emphasizes the link between different elements, similar to the connection established by an "equation".

interrelation

Similar to relationship but implies a reciprocal or mutual connection.

considerations

Highlights the factors to be taken into account, like variables in an "equation".

factors at play

Replaces "equation" with a phrase highlighting the various influencing elements.

FAQs

How can I use "equation" in a sentence?

The term "equation" can be used in sentences to describe a mathematical statement, like "The Pythagorean theorem is a fundamental equation". It can also represent a balance or relationship, such as, "In the political equation, public opinion plays a key role".

What can I say instead of "equation"?

You can use alternatives like "mathematical formula", "balancing act", or "relationship" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "equation" or "formula"?

Both "equation" and "formula" are correct but have different meanings. "Equation" implies a statement of equality, while "formula" is a general rule expressed in symbols or numbers. Use "equation" when referring to mathematical statements showing equality, and "formula" for general rules or recipes.

What's the difference between "equation" and "consideration"?

"Equation" suggests a balanced relationship or a mathematical statement showing equality, while "considerations" are factors taken into account. Use "equation" when referring to balances and relationships, and "considerations" when talking about factors that influence a decision or situation.