easy
In the equation, x is a variable.
What does Variable mean?
a factor or value that can change.
Dictionary definition
Something that can change or take different values; in an investigation, a variable is a factor that is changed, measured, or controlled, and in mathematics it is often represented by a symbol.
Example sentences
Variable in a sentence
medium
The amount of sunlight was the variable the students changed.
hard
A fair investigation changes the tested variable, measures an outcome variable, and keeps relevant controlled variables consistent.
Writing practice
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Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Variable
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What is a variable?
Variables can change naturally, be deliberately changed, or be measured.
Practice 2
Students test how water amount affects plant growth. What is the tested variable?
The tested variable is the factor deliberately changed.
Practice 3
Why are controlled variables kept consistent?
Controls reduce alternative explanations for the observed results.
Practice complete
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Pronunciation coach
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Variable
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Sounds like
vair · ee · uh · bul · strongest beat: vair
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordVariable.
Partnoun, adjective.
MeaningVariable means a factor or value that can change.
ExampleExample: In the equation, x is a variable.
Word breakdown
4 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- vair · ee · uh · bul
- Strongest beat
- vair
- Ending
- bul
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on vair.
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Synonyms
Words like Variable
factorA close term for a condition that can affect an outcome, though not every factor is deliberately varied.
changing valueA plain-language equivalent for a mathematical variable that can take different values.
changeableA close adjective when variable means likely or able to change.
Antonyms
Opposite words
constantA direct contrast in mathematics or an investigation when a value or condition remains unchanged.
fixedA direct adjective contrast when variable means able or likely to change.
Synonym practice
Want to practice variable synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "The variable weather changed throughout the week," then compare close word choices. Practice variable synonyms.
Word family
Variable word family
Related words
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Student support
Understand Variable
Hint for students
Ask what is deliberately changed, what outcome is measured, and what relevant conditions should stay consistent.
Common mix-up
Variable does not mean random. A variable may change according to a rule, design, or pattern. Also, a controlled variable is a condition kept consistent, not a separate control group.
Try it in class or at home
Groups label variables in three investigation scenarios, repair a scenario that changes too many factors, and create a table showing tested, outcome, and controlled variables.
Teacher prompt
In a plant-growth investigation, identify the tested, measured-outcome, and controlled variables. Why does each role matter?
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Word Wheel · Grades 4–6
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