unknown variable
[/ʌnˈnoʊn ˈvɛriəbəl/]
nounfemininepl: unknown variables / variáveis desconhecidas
variável desconhecida
1. A symbol or letter used in mathematics and algebra to represent a quantity whose value is not yet determined or is to be solved for
In the equation 2x + 5 = 13, x is the unknown variable we need to find.
Na equação 2x + 5 = 13, x é a variável desconhecida que precisamos encontrar.
2. In programming and computer science, a variable whose value has not been assigned or initialized
The function returned an error because it referenced an unknown variable that was never declared.
A função retornou um erro porque fez referência a uma variável desconhecida que nunca foi declarada.
3. A factor or element in a situation whose nature, value, or behavior cannot be predicted or determined
The weather is an unknown variable that could affect the success of the outdoor event.
O clima é uma variável desconhecida que pode afetar o sucesso do evento ao ar livre.
This is primarily academic and technical terminology used in mathematics, physics, engineering, and programming education across both Brazil and the United States. In Brazilian schools, the term 'incógnita' is often preferred in elementary and middle school mathematics, while 'variável desconhecida' is more common in higher mathematics and programming. The concept is fundamental to problem-solving methodology in STEM fields internationally.
Related Idioms & Phrases
solve for the unknown variable
isolate the unknown variable
define the unknown variable
account for unknown variables
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