equation
noun [ C ]
uk/ɪˈkweɪʒən/ usa mathematical statement consisting of numbers, letters, and symbols that shows that one amount is equal to another:
Profit can be calculated using the simple equation P = R - C (Profit = Revenue minus Cost).
linear/algebraic/differential equations
a situation, especially when it is considered to be complicated and made up of many different parts:
In today's market it's more important than ever to get the price/performance equation right.
Another important factor in the equation is the exchange rate.
When you're starting your own business, difficulties and frustrations are part of the equation.
The WTO cannot afford to ignore the trade side of the equation.
add/factor/bring sth into the equation Project planners failed to factor government bureaucracy into the equation.
See also
the accounting equation