What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
divisor
Example
6 is a divisor of 24 since 24 ÷ 6 = 4. [divisor: noun]
Example
To find the common divisors of two numbers, we need to list all the numbers that divide both numbers without leaving a remainder. [divisors: plural noun]
multiple
Example
12 is a multiple of 3 since 3 x 4 = 12. [multiple: noun]
Example
To find the common multiples of two numbers, we need to list all the numbers that are products of both numbers and an integer. [multiples: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Multiple is more commonly used than divisor in everyday language. Multiple is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while divisor is a more specialized term used mainly in mathematical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between divisor and multiple?
Both divisor and multiple are formal terms used in mathematics. However, divisor may be considered more technical and specialized than multiple, which has broader applications in different fields.
