1 C1 neutral
(Mathematics) To extract a common factor from an algebraic expression.
"You can simplify the equation by factoring out the common term on both sides."
separable
factor out
C1 neutral separable transitive
To remove, exclude, or isolate a variable or common element, either in mathematics or in analytical thinking.
In plain English
To take something out of the calculation or plan so you don't have to think about it separately.
What does "factor out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 neutral
To remove or exclude a variable, factor, or influence from an analysis or plan.
"If we factor out seasonal variation, the underlying trend becomes much clearer."
separable
Usage tip
Has a precise mathematical meaning (to extract a common factor from an expression) and a broader analytical meaning (to eliminate a variable from consideration). The technical sense is more common in academic contexts; the general sense appears in business and analysis.
Words that pair with "factor out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
noise variable bias cost expression common factor
How to conjugate "factor out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
factor out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
factors out
he/she/it
Past simple
factored out
yesterday
Past participle
factored out
have + pp
-ing form
factoring out
continuous
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