In mathematics, expression means: A combination of numbers, variables and operation signs, such as 4x² − 3x + 7, that has no equals sign and can be simplified or evaluated.
In Turkish: ifade, cebirsel ifade
How it is used
You simplify, expand, factorise and evaluate an expression. An expression is made of terms: in 4x² − 3x + 7 the terms are 4x², −3x and 7. Exam questions often say 'Write an expression for the perimeter'.
Example sentences
Write an expression for the total cost of n tickets at £12 each.
Evaluate the expression when x = −2.
Common collocations
algebraic expression
simplify an expression
evaluate an expression
expand an expression
Related terms
equationA mathematical statement with an equals sign, showing that two expressions have the same value, such as 2x + 3 = 11.
variableA letter or symbol, such as x or y, that stands for a number which can change or which you do not know yet.
simplifyTo write a fraction or expression in its shortest and clearest form without changing its value, for example writing 6/8 as 3/4.
coefficientThe number that multiplies a variable in a term; in 5x² − 3x, the coefficient of x² is 5 and the coefficient of x is −3.
polynomialAn expression made of terms with whole-number powers of a variable, added or subtracted, such as 3x⁴ − 2x² + x − 7.
