Pronunciation

/ˈfæk.tər/

Definitions

• Noun (n): A contributing element or influence; something that contributes to a result or outcome. For example: “The weather was a key factor in deciding whether to have the event outdoors.”

  • In mathematics or statistics, it’s a number or algebraic expression multiplied in a product to form a polynomial.
  • In business, it can refer to a company or individual engaged in buying and selling goods or services.
  • In science, it might be a substance or condition necessary for a specific reaction or process to occur.

  Example sentence: “One important risk factor for heart disease is high blood pressure.”

• Verb (v): To determine or calculate by multiplying numbers or quantities together. For example: “We need to factor in the cost of materials when calculating the final price.”

  Example sentence: “Don’t forget to factor your commuting time into your daily schedule.”

Phrases

• “Factor in”: To consider something as part of a calculation, decision, or assessment. For instance: “They factored in their children’s education expenses when planning their retirement savings.”
• “Break down into factors”: To analyze something into its component parts or elements. Example: “The teacher helped her students break down the equation into its prime factors.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “Genetics is just one of several factors affecting a person’s height.”
• Verb: “Before signing the contract, we need to factor in potential delays and budget overruns.”

Synonyms

• Element
• Component
• Consideration
• Contributor
• Influencer (noun)
• Calculate
• Consider
• Analyze (verb)