independent variable
Use Independent variable in a sentenceindependent variable
noun
1.
Mathematics. a variable in a functional relation whose value determines the value or values of other variables, as x in the relation y = 3 x 2 . Compare dependent variable ( def 1 ).
2.
Statistics. (in an experiment) a variable that is intentionally changed to observe its effect on the dependent variable. dependent variable ( def 2 ), control variable ( def 1 ).
Origin:
1850–55
1850–55
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
Cite This Source
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Link To independent variable
Collins
World English Dictionary
| independent variable | |
| —n | |
| 1. | Also called: argument a variable in a mathematical equation or statement whose value determines that of the dependent variable: in y = f(x), x is the independent variable |
| 2. | statistics See also experimental condition Also called: predictor the variable which an experimenter deliberately manipulates in order to observe its relationship with some other quantity, or which defines the distinct conditions in an experiment |
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
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Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009
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2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009
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00:10
Independent variable
is always a great word to know.
So is prime number. Does it mean:
| a symbol or number placed above and after another symbol or number to denote the power to which the latter is to be raised |
| a positive integer that is not divisible without remainder by any integer except itself and 1, with 1 often excluded |
American Heritage
Science Dictionary
independent variable  (ĭn'dĭ-pěn'dənt) Pronunciation Key
In mathematics, a variable whose value determines the value of other variables. For example, in the formula for the area of a circle, A = πr2, r is the independent variable, as its value determines the value of the area (A). Compare dependent variable. |
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2002. Published by Houghton Mifflin. All rights reserved.
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Copyright © 2002. Published by Houghton Mifflin. All rights reserved.
Cite This Source
Example sentences
In the case of only one independent variable with two levels, these are equivalent.
Your system has to be fairly robust against incompetence, because competence is not an independent variable.
Here, the independent variable is the length of the straw and the dependent variable is the distance traveled by the spitball.
Maternal employment status would seem to be an independent variable rather than a dependent variable.
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