Factor Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈfæk.tər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result or situation.

Examples

• The weather was a significant factor in the cancellation of the outdoor concert.
• Heredity is a factor in the development of certain diseases.

Synonyms

• Influence
• Element

Antonyms

• Irrelevance
• Insignificance

Additional Information

Factors can be tangible or intangible, and may have a direct or indirect impact on a situation. In mathematics, a factor is a number or expression that, when multiplied by another, gives a product.

In business, factors can refer to external circumstances that affect the performance of a company, such as market trends or economic conditions. Understanding the various factors that influence a situation is crucial in making informed decisions.

Factors can also be used to describe the components of a complex system, such as the factors that contribute to a person’s overall health.

Etymology

The word “factor” originates from the Latin “factor,” meaning “doer” or “maker,” and is derived from the verb “facere,” meaning “to do.”

Usage Notes

When using the word “factor,” it is essential to consider the context in which it is being used. In mathematics, the term has a specific meaning, whereas in everyday language, it can be used more broadly to describe any influence or circumstance.

Cultural References

The term “factor” has been used in various cultural contexts, including in the title of the reality TV show “X Factor,” which refers to an individual’s unique talent or appeal.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Factor in: to take into account or consider something when making a decision or calculation.

Related Words or Phrases

Influence, element, component, circumstance, consideration

Collocations

Factor in, factor out, the X factor, safety factor

Frequency of Use

The word “factor” is commonly used in both formal and informal writing, with an average frequency of use in modern language.

Common Misspellings

Facotr, факtor, facter