What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coefficient
Example
In the equation 2x + 3y = 10, the coefficients of x and y are 2 and 3 respectively. [coefficient: noun]
Example
The correlation coefficient measures the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables. [coefficient: noun]
index
Example
You can find the book you're looking for in the library index. [index: noun]
Example
The consumer price index tracks changes in the cost of living over time. [index: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Index is more commonly used than coefficient in everyday language. Index is a versatile word that can be found in various contexts, such as books, catalogs, and economic indicators. Coefficient, on the other hand, is more specialized and is mainly used in mathematical and scientific disciplines.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coefficient and index?
Both coefficient and index can be used in formal contexts, especially in academic and scientific writing. However, coefficient may be perceived as more technical and specialized, while index has a wider range of usage and can be employed in both formal and informal settings.
