verb
factorise
FAK-tuh-ryze
Factorise (verb) means In mathematics: rewrite a number or expression as a product of its factors. Example: “Factorise x squared plus 5x plus 6 into (x + 2)(x + 3).”
verb
1
In mathematics: rewrite a number or expression as a product of its factors.
"Factorise x squared plus 5x plus 6 into (x + 2)(x + 3)."
"The first step is to factorise 84 into its prime factors."
2
More generally, break something down into the separate parts that combine to produce it.
"The model factorises risk into three independent components."
How to use factorise
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRewrite a number or expression as things multiplied together.
When to use it
Technical; standard in school and university mathematics.
Memory tip
'Factorise fully' in an exam means keep going until nothing further can be taken out.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
factorise fully
factorise the quadratic
factorise into primes
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ x squared plus 5x plus 6 into (x + 2)(x + 3).
Etymology
From factor, from Latin facere 'to make, do', with the verb-forming suffix -ise.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
expand
multiply out
Related words
Rhymes for factorise
See all rhymes for factorise →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between factorise and expand?
They are opposite operations. Expanding multiplies out the brackets — (x + 2)(x + 3) becomes x² + 5x + 6. Factorising goes the other way, putting the brackets back in. A good check on your factorising is to expand it again and see if you get the original.
Is it factorise or factorize?
Both are correct: factorise is the usual British and Australian spelling, factorize the American one, and Oxford style also uses -ize in British English. Americans more often just say 'factor' as the verb.
What is the meaning of factorise?
"factorise" (verb) means in mathematics: rewrite a number or expression as a product of its factors.
What is another word for factorise?
Other words for "factorise" include factor, break down, decompose, factorize, separate out.
