# factoring

/ˈfæktɝɪŋ/ (US) · /fˈæktəɹɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/factoring
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the process of breaking down a number or an expression into smaller parts that can be multiplied together to get the original. It is like finding the building blocks of a math problem.

For teachers: the decomposition of an integer or polynomial into a product of smaller integers or polynomials. In mathematics, it refers to the identification of the factors of a number or expression.

## Examples

- Factoring the number 12 gives us 2, 3, and 4.
- The student struggled with factoring the quadratic equation until she realized the pattern of the coefficients.
- In algebraic geometry, factoring a polynomial into irreducible components allows researchers to analyze the underlying structure of the curve or surface it represents.

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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.