Skip to content
vocaboo
Beta
Log in

differential

Pronunciation: [ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃəl]

Word

Learn how to use differential in a sentence: 9 audio examples across 3 meanings.

Context: “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.

Example

In math class, we learned how to calculate the differential of a function to find its slope.

Example

Calculating a differential doesn't help us understand simple addition problems.

Example

What does the differential of this function tell us about its rate of change?

Context: “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.

Example

The mechanic explained that a good differential helps the car handle better during turns.

Example

If the differential is broken, the car will have a tough time turning without skidding.

Example

How does the differential in a car affect its ability to turn corners?

Context: “variation”

(adjective) describing something that shows differences or distinctions between two or more things. It helps us notice how things are not the same.

Example

The report showed the differential effects of the new policy across different age groups.

Example

There was nothing differential about those two groups; they were very similar.

Example

What are the differential impacts of the new law on different communities?

How to pronounce differential

Pronunciation: [ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃəl]

Listen and repeat as many times as you need.

0s
0s