Inklingo

How to Say "variable" in Spanish

English → Spanish

variable

/bah-ryah-bleh//baˈɾjaβle/

nounB2general
Use 'variable' when referring to a factor, quantity, or element that can change or be changed, especially in scientific, mathematical, or statistical contexts.
A simple weather vane spinning in the wind, pointing in different directions.

Examples

El precio del petróleo es una variable importante en la economía global.

The price of oil is an important variable in the global economy.

Tenemos que controlar esta variable en el experimento.

We have to control this variable in the experiment.

En matemáticas, 'x' suele ser la variable.

In mathematics, 'x' is usually the variable.

El precio es una variable importante en nuestra decisión.

The price is an important factor in our decision.

Always Feminine

When used as a noun meaning 'a factor,' it is always feminine. Always use 'la variable' or 'una variable'.

Gender Error

Mistake:El variable de estudio.

Correction: La variable de estudio.

flotante

/flo-TAHN-teh//floˈtante/

adjectiveB2finance, general
Use 'flotante' as an adjective to describe something that is not fixed or permanent, particularly in financial contexts or when referring to a transient population.
A colorful hot air balloon drifting across a clear blue sky with fluffy clouds.

Examples

La ciudad tiene una gran población flotante en verano.

The city has a large floating population in summer.

El país utiliza un tipo de cambio flotante.

The country uses a floating exchange rate.

La deuda flotante del gobierno es preocupante.

The government's floating debt is worrying.

Abstract Use

When used for people or money, it means they are 'moving through' or 'changing,' much like something moving on water.

Noun vs. Adjective Confusion

Learners often confuse 'variable' (the noun, meaning a changeable factor) with 'flotante' (an adjective, meaning not fixed). Remember that 'variable' is typically used for abstract concepts or quantifiable elements that change, while 'flotante' describes a state of being unfixed or transient.

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