Inklingo

How to Say "index" in Spanish

English → Spanish

índice

nounA2general
Use 'índice' when referring to an alphabetical list found at the back of a book, or for a mathematical, statistical, or stock market value like a birth rate.

Examples

Mira el índice para ver en qué página está el primer capítulo.

Look at the table of contents to see what page the first chapter is on.

coeficiente

ko-ay-fee-thyen-taykoefiˈθjente

nounB1mathematical
Use 'coeficiente' specifically for a numerical factor or multiplier in a mathematical expression, like the coefficient of 'x'.
A row of identical blue apples with a single large number of wooden blocks stacked next to them to show a multiplier.

Examples

Para resolver la ecuación, primero identifica el coeficiente de la X.

To solve the equation, first identify the coefficient of the X.

El científico midió el coeficiente de expansión del metal.

The scientist measured the expansion coefficient of the metal.

Su coeficiente intelectual es impresionante para su edad.

Their intelligence quotient (IQ) is impressive for their age.

Always Masculine

Even though it ends in 'e', this word is always masculine. You should always use 'el' or 'un' with it.

Making it Plural

To make it plural, just add an 's' at the end: 'los coeficientes'. The stress on the vowel stays in the same place.

Confusion with 'cociente'

Mistake: “Using 'coeficiente' when you mean 'the result of division'.”

Correction: Use 'cociente' for division results and 'coeficiente' for a multiplier or an index like IQ.

potencia

poh-TEN-syahpoˈten.sja

nounC2mathematical/scientific
Use 'potencia' when referring to mathematical 'power' (e.g., x squared) or to 'power' in the sense of electrical energy.
A powerful mechanical crane rapidly lifting a heavy steel beam high above the ground, illustrating the concept of power as the rate of doing work.

Examples

La potencia eléctrica se mide en vatios.

Electrical power is measured in watts.

Cuatro elevado a la potencia de tres es sesenta y cuatro.

Four raised to the power of three is sixty-four.

Math Usage

In math, you usually say 'elevado a la potencia de...' (raised to the power of...). For example, 'diez a la potencia de cinco' (ten to the power of five).

Índice vs. Coeficiente

Learners often confuse 'índice' and 'coeficiente' in mathematical contexts. Remember that 'índice' can refer to a general rate or value (like birth rate), while 'coeficiente' is specifically a multiplier in an equation.

Related Translations

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