What does equationally mean?
Equationally is an adverb meaning in the manner of an equation or by means of mathematical equations. It describes a statement, comparison, or analysis that is expressed through an equation rather than in ordinary verbal terms. For example, a geometric or scientific relationship may be examined equationally by assigning variables to the relevant quantities and setting up an algebraic relationship. The word is formal and relatively uncommon, so in many everyday contexts “expressed as an equation” or “algebraically” may sound more natural. It should not be confused with “equally,” which means to the same extent or on equal terms. Equationally is also distinct from the adjective “equational”: the former modifies an action or statement, while the latter characterizes something as relating to or being expressed by an equation. Its specialized character makes it especially useful in precise mathematical and technical prose.
adverbIn the manner of an equation; by or in terms of mathematical equations.
- Using an equation or mathematical equations; in an equation-based or equation-expressed manner.
"The two expressions can be compared equationally by setting their variables equal."
"The relation is expressed equationally in the second proof."
"The teacher rewrote the verbal condition equationally, making the unknown values explicit."
Equationally is the mathematical way of saying “by equation,” turning a verbal relationship into a precise algebraic statement.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of equationally
Equationally belongs to the word family of “equation,” “equate,” and “equal,” all of which trace to Latin roots associated with equality. Latin aequare meant “to make equal,” while aequatio contributed to the English word “equation.” English “equational” developed as an adjective meaning “relating to an equation,” and “equationally” was formed adverbially with the suffix “-ally.” The related forms “equate,” “equation,” and “equal” preserve the same underlying concept of equality or making quantities equal.
How equationally is actually used
Relatively uncommon and formal; it is most natural in mathematical, scientific, or technical writing.
Easily confused with equationally
Equational is an adjective relating to equations or expressing a relationship in equation form, whereas equationally is an adverb describing an action performed by or in terms of an equation.
Equally means to the same extent or on equal terms, while equationally specifically refers to using an equation or mathematical equation-based method.