differential
- 01 C2 Proficiency
n.a set of gears in a car that allows the wheels to turn at different speeds when going around a corner.
n.a gear assembly that transmits power from the engine to the wheels while allowing them to rotate at different speeds during cornering.
Simple“The mechanic had to repair the rear differential because the car was making a strange noise during turns.”
In context“A limited-slip differential is essential for high-performance vehicles to maintain traction when accelerating out of tight corners.”
Synonymsdifferential gear - 02 C2 Proficiency
n.a very small change in a mathematical variable.
n.an infinitesimal change in a variable, or a function representing the linear approximation of a change in a value.
Simple“In our calculus class, we learned how to calculate the differential of a complex function.”
In context“The student struggled to grasp the geometric interpretation of the total differential in multivariable calculus.”
Synonymsderivativeinfinitesimal - 03 C1 Advanced
adj.describing something that is based on a difference or that creates a difference.
adj.pertaining to, creating, or based on a difference; distinctive in effect or application.
Simple“The company uses differential pricing, so students pay less than adults for the same ticket.”
In context“The study examined the differential impact of the new tax policy on urban versus rural households.”
Synonyms
Usage differential effect · differential pattern
“The most obvious differential between his new quartet is pace - something brought into further focus by England's decision to prioritise bowlers who reach high speeds during last winter's Ashes defeat.”
Morphologically different + -ial.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.