differential
Prononciation : [ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃəl]
Contexte : « mathematics »
(noun) a mathematical expression that shows how a function changes when you make a tiny change in its input. It's like figuring out how fast something is changing.
Exemple
In math class, we learned how to calculate the differential of a function to find its slope.
Exemple
Calculating a differential doesn't help us understand simple addition problems.
Exemple
What does the differential of this function tell us about its rate of change?
Contexte : « mechanics »
(noun) a part of a car’s drive system that allows the wheels to turn at different speeds, especially when going around corners. It helps the car move smoothly and not skid.
Exemple
The mechanic explained that a good differential helps the car handle better during turns.
Exemple
If the differential is broken, the car will have a tough time turning without skidding.
Exemple
How does the differential in a car affect its ability to turn corners?
Contexte : « variation »
(adjective) describing something that shows differences or distinctions between two or more things. It helps us notice how things are not the same.
Exemple
The report showed the differential effects of the new policy across different age groups.
Exemple
There was nothing differential about those two groups; they were very similar.
Exemple
What are the differential impacts of the new law on different communities?