mathematical equation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mathematical equation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific type of equation that involves mathematical expressions or calculations. Example: "To solve the problem, we need to set up a mathematical equation that represents the relationship between the variables."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

While he is at the crease, batting is almost reduced to a mathematical equation.

The Guardian - Sport

Together, they could have been a mathematical equation for opposites.

The New York Times - Style

"The Killing" in particular works rather like a mathematical equation.

The Economist

This country is far more than a mathematical equation.

The New York Times

I think it's sad when people expect a neat conclusion like a mathematical equation".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"They think they have a mathematical equation that figures everything out," Jeter has said.

The New York Times - Sports

And this fluctuating uncertainty was precisely tracked by a fancy mathematical equation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ideally, diversity should be part of the story-telling and myth-making, not a mathematical equation.

The Washington Post

He gave me an example of a mathematical equation, and I thought: wow, that's the way I work, too.

The Guardian

This pattern again has been seen repeatedly, and there is even a mathematical equation to illustrate it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Ramellzee the artist, theoretician, and rapper with a name derived from a mathematical equation died last week.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts, use "mathematical equation" to highlight precision and objectivity. For instance, 'The model uses a "mathematical equation" to predict stock prices.'

Common error

Avoid using "mathematical equation" metaphorically when simpler terms like 'formula' or 'calculation' would suffice. Overusing technical terms can obscure your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mathematical equation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement in a sentence. It refers to a specific type of equation that uses mathematical expressions to represent relationships between quantities. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mathematical equation" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase that denotes a formal mathematical relationship. As per Ludwig, its primary function is to represent relationships between quantities, with the communicative purpose to describe, calculate, or predict phenomena. While applicable across contexts, its usage is more frequent in News & Media, Science, and Academia. While you can use simpler terms such as "math equation" or "mathematical formula", be mindful of the technicality and formality implied by "mathematical equation". Overusing the phrase in non-mathematical contexts can reduce clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mathematical formula

Focuses on a specific, defined relationship, implying a precise set of steps or symbols.

numerical equation

Highlights the aspect of numbers, often used when emphasizing calculation and quantitative relationships.

algebraic equation

Specifies the type of equation involving variables and algebraic operations.

quantitative model

Emphasizes the use of mathematics to represent real-world systems or phenomena.

mathematical model

Highlights the broader application of mathematics to create a representation.

calculation method

Focuses on the process of arriving at a solution through mathematical operations.

numerical relationship

Describes a connection or correlation between numbers.

arithmetic expression

Refers to a combination of numbers and operations.

formulaic representation

Conveys the idea of expressing something through a defined formula.

symbolic representation

Highlights using symbols to denote relationships and quantities in mathematical terms.

FAQs

How can I use "mathematical equation" in a sentence?

You can use "mathematical equation" to describe a formula or relationship expressed in mathematical terms, for example: "The physics engine relies on a complex "mathematical equation" to simulate realistic motion."

What's a simpler alternative to "mathematical equation"?

Depending on the context, you might use simpler alternatives like "mathematical formula", or "numerical relationship".

Is it correct to say "math equation" instead of "mathematical equation"?

Yes, "math equation" is a more informal and commonly used abbreviation of "mathematical equation". Both are generally understood to mean the same thing.

What's the difference between a "mathematical equation" and a "mathematical model"?

A "mathematical equation" is a specific formula, whereas a "mathematical model" is a broader representation of a system using mathematical concepts, which may include one or more equations, along with other components.