adjective / noun

differential

dif-uh-REN-shul/dˌɪfɝˈɛnʃʌl/

Relating to a difference between amounts or cases.

The bracket marks the temperature differential between the two thermometers.

Two simple thermometers at different fluid heights with a short bracket between levels labelled only 'ΔT', functional difference comparison.

Etymology

difLatinapart

+ferLatinto bear, carry

+entiLatinstate or condition

+alLatinrelating to

The “carry apart” roots developed into the idea of a distinction. The adjective ending makes differential describe something concerned with that distinction; its early sense was “making or exhibiting a difference.”

In context

AJMCtv MJH1:00

in some diseases they are they have had substantial benefit but in others the benefits are much more modest and I think we need to account for that differential benefit with differential pricing

Dr Scott Ramsey Addresses the Need for Differential Pricing Structures for Drugs

More examples

Night workers receive a pay differential for the late hours.
The policy has differential effects on small and large businesses.
The museum uses differential pricing to offer students cheaper tickets.

Forms

differential · differentials

Similar words

difference: A broader term for any way things are unlike.
gap: Emphasizes the size of a separation between amounts or levels.