# differential

/ˌdɪfɝˈɛnʃəɫ/ (US) · /dˌɪfəɹˈɛnʃəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/differential
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 2. car part

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a set of gears in a car that allows the wheels to turn at different speeds when going around a corner.

For teachers: a gear assembly that transmits power from the engine to the wheels while allowing them to rotate at different speeds during cornering.

- The mechanic had to repair the rear differential because the car was making a strange noise during turns.
- A limited-slip differential is essential for high-performance vehicles to maintain traction when accelerating out of tight corners.

### 3. mathematics

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Academic

a very small change in a mathematical variable.

For teachers: an infinitesimal change in a variable, or a function representing the linear approximation of a change in a value.

- In our calculus class, we learned how to calculate the differential of a complex function.
- The student struggled to grasp the geometric interpretation of the total differential in multivariable calculus.

### 4. relating to a difference

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic

describing something that is based on a difference or that creates a difference.

For teachers: pertaining to, creating, or based on a difference; distinctive in effect or application.

- The company uses differential pricing, so students pay less than adults for the same ticket.
- The study examined the differential impact of the new tax policy on urban versus rural households.

## Examples

- The pay differential between the two roles is quite small.
- Economists are studying the price differential between organic and conventional produce in urban supermarkets.
- The union argued that the widening wage differential between executive leadership and entry-level staff was unsustainable for long-term company morale.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.