e ‧ qua ‧ tion AC /ɪˈkweɪʒ ə n/ BrE AmE noun
1 . [countable] a statement in mathematics that shows that two amounts or totals are equal ⇨ algebra :
In the equation 2x + 1 = 7, what is x?
2 . [countable usually singular] the set of different facts, ideas, or people that all affect a situation and must be considered together:
The tourist industry forms a crucial part of the region’s economic equation.
The question of cost has now entered the equation.
3 . [singular] when you consider that two things are similar or connected:
the equation of violence with power
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COLLOCATIONS (for Meaning 1)
■ verbs
▪ solve an equation
For homework, solve the equations on page 56.
▪ work out an equation
I spent over an hour trying to work out the equation.
■ adjectives
▪ a mathematical equation
a set of mathematical equations
▪ a quadratic equation (=one that involves an unknown quantity that is multiplied by itself)
■ phrases
▪ a side of an equation (=the letters and numbers on one side of an equals sign)
Find the square root of both sides of the equation.
▪ the left-hand/right-hand side of an equation
Add up what you've got on the right-hand side of the equation.
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COLLOCATIONS (for Meaning 2)
■ adjectives
▪ a complex equation
New factors are beginning to affect what is an already complex equation.
■ verbs
▪ something enters/comes into the equation (=something begins to have an effect)
Consumer confidence also enters the equation.
▪ bring something into the equation (=introduce a new idea for people to consider )
It all becomes more complicated once you bring money into the equation.
■ phrases
▪ a part of the equation
The tourist industry is a crucial part of the country’s overall economic equation.
▪ a side of an equation
We need to discuss the financial side of the equation.