unknown variables

[/ʌnˈnoʊn ˈvɛriəbəlz/]
nounpl: unknown variables
variáveis desconhecidas
1. In mathematics and algebra, quantities or values that are to be determined or solved for, typically represented by letters such as x, y, or z
The equation has three unknown variables that we need to solve for.
A equação possui três variáveis desconhecidas que precisamos resolver.
2. In science and research, factors or elements whose values or effects are not yet determined or understood
The experiment was affected by several unknown variables that skewed the results.
O experimento foi afetado por várias variáveis desconhecidas que distorceram os resultados.
3. In general usage, unpredictable or uncontrollable factors in a situation
There are too many unknown variables in this business plan to predict success.
Há muitas variáveis desconhecidas neste plano de negócios para prever o sucesso.
This is primarily a technical and academic term used consistently across English-speaking and Portuguese-speaking countries. It is fundamental to mathematics, physics, and scientific research education. In Brazil, it is commonly encountered in high school algebra and university-level courses. The term is formal and technical, with no colloquial variations.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
unknownsundetermined valuesunidentified factorsindeterminates
Antonyms / Antônimos
known variablesconstantsknown quantities

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
variáveis desconhecidas
Standard term used in mathematics and science education
São Paulo
variáveis desconhecidas
Common in academic and technical contexts
Rio de Janeiro
variáveis desconhecidas
Same usage as in general Brazilian Portuguese
Portugal
variáveis desconhecidas
Identical usage in Portuguese mathematics; sometimes 'incógnitas' in algebraic context

Related Words

equationalgebravariableconstantcoefficientsolution

Related Idioms & Phrases

too many unknown variables
account for unknown variables
eliminate unknown variables
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