commutative law

[kəˈmjuːtətɪv lɔː]
nounpl: commutative laws
lei comutativa
1. A fundamental mathematical principle stating that the order of operands does not affect the result of certain operations, particularly addition and multiplication
The commutative law of addition states that 2 + 3 = 3 + 2
A lei comutativa da adição afirma que 2 + 3 = 3 + 2
2. A property in algebra where a ⊕ b = b ⊕ a for a given operation ⊕
Multiplication follows the commutative law: 5 × 4 = 4 × 5 = 20
A multiplicação segue a lei comutativa: 5 × 4 = 4 × 5 = 20
This is a fundamental concept in mathematics education in both Brazil and the United States, typically introduced in elementary school. It forms the foundation for understanding more complex algebraic principles. The term is used identically in formal mathematical discourse across English and Portuguese-speaking countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
commutative propertycommutativitycommutative principle
Antonyms / Antônimos
non-commutative operationanticommutative property

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
lei comutativa
Standard term used in mathematics education throughout Brazil
São Paulo
lei comutativa
Commonly used in academic and educational contexts
Portugal
lei comutativa
Same usage as Brazil; standard mathematical terminology
General English (USA)
commutative law
Fundamental concept taught in elementary and secondary mathematics

Related Words

associative lawdistributive lawmathematical operationalgebraarithmetic

Related Idioms & Phrases

obey the commutative law
follow the commutative property
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