variable

[ˈvɛriəbl]

variable Definition

• 1. able or likely to change or be changed; not consistent or having a fixed pattern
• 2. a quantity or factor that is capable of assuming any of a set of values or of being changed or varied in a mathematical equation or function

Using variable: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "variable" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The weather is variable in this region.

• Example

  The stock market is highly variable and unpredictable.

• Example

  The teacher assigned a variable for the unknown quantity in the equation.

• Example

  The experiment tested the effect of different variables on plant growth.

variable Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for variable

• changeable
• fluctuating
• inconstant
• unstable
• mutable

Antonyms for variable

• consistent
• unchanging
• constant

Idioms Using variable

• ring the changes (on something)

  vary the ways in which something is done or presented.

  Example

  The chef likes to ring the changes on the menu every few weeks.

• run hot and cold (on something)

  have mixed feelings about something; be sometimes enthusiastic and sometimes unenthusiastic.

  Example

  I'm running hot and cold on whether to accept the job offer.

• up for grabs

  available to be won or taken; not yet claimed or decided.

  Example

  The championship is still up for grabs with two games left in the season.

Phrases with variable

• independent variable

  a variable whose value does not depend on that of another.

  Example

  In the equation y = 2x + 1, x is the independent variable.

• dependent variable

  a variable whose value depends on that of another.

  Example

  In the equation y = 2x + 1, y is the dependent variable.

• random variable

  a variable whose possible values are numerical outcomes of a random phenomenon.

  Example

  The number of heads obtained when flipping a coin is a random variable.

Origins of variable

from Latin 'variabilis', from 'varius' meaning 'different'

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Summary: variable in Brief

The term 'variable' [ˈvɛriəbl] refers to something that is subject to change or variation, such as the weather or the stock market. It can also refer to a mathematical quantity or factor that can take on different values. Examples include 'The teacher assigned a variable for the unknown quantity in the equation.' and 'The experiment tested the effect of different variables on plant growth.' 'Variable' extends into phrases like 'independent variable,' and idioms like 'ring the changes (on something),' denoting variation in presentation or approach.