Numeric vs. Numerical: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Updated on September 16, 2023
"Numeric" and "numerical" both relate to numbers, with "numeric" often referring directly to numbers and "numerical" implying a relation or quality of numbers.
Difference Between Numeric and Numerical
Both numeric and numerical are adjectives derived from the noun "number." They pertain to numbers or the realm of mathematics. While they are often used interchangeably, some subtle differences in their usage and connotations exist. Numeric tends to be used in contexts directly describing numbers, especially in computing and programming contexts. Numerical, on the other hand, leans towards denoting the qualities, relations, or characteristics of numbers.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
In the field of computers and data types, the term numeric is prevalent. It directly refers to data that is represented as a number, especially in databases. So, for instance, you might come across a "numeric value" or a "numeric field." On the flip side, numerical might be used more in mathematical or statistical contexts, like "numerical analysis" or "numerical methods," suggesting techniques or approaches dealing with numbers.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
A useful way to differentiate might be to consider numeric as being about the "what" (the number itself) and numerical as being about the "how" (the method, relation, or characteristic of the number). For instance, a keypad might be termed numeric because it consists of numbers, but a sequence's pattern might be termed numerical because it relates to the behavior or characteristics of numbers.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
Despite these nuances, it's essential to note that in everyday language, the distinction between numeric and numerical is blurry. Often, the choice between them boils down to stylistic preference or established terminology within certain fields or contexts.
Levi
Sep 16, 2023
Summing it up, while both terms refer to the realm of numbers, numeric is more direct, referring to actual numbers, especially in computing. Numerical leans more towards the qualities, behaviors, or characteristics related to numbers, especially in mathematical contexts.
Nolan
Sep 16, 2023
Numeric vs. Numerical Comparison Chart
Basic Relation
Directly to numbers.
To the qualities or relations of numbers.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
Common Usage
Computing and data types.
Mathematical or statistical contexts.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
Connotation
The "what" – the number itself.
The "how" – the method or relation.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
Typical Contexts
Numeric value, numeric keypad.
Numerical analysis, numerical sequence.
Henry
Sep 16, 2023
Numeric vs. Numerical Definitions
◉Numerical
Being a number or involving counting.
The numerical value of the variable is ten.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
◉Numeric
Representing data in terms of numbers.
The system stores this data in a numeric format.
Lucas
Sep 16, 2023
◉Numerical
Related to the qualities or characteristics of numbers.
She has excellent numerical skills.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
◉Numeric
Pertaining directly to numbers.
The password must have at least one numeric character.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
◉Numerical
Expressing a number or amount.
They gave a numerical representation of the population growth.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
◉Numerical
Involving mathematics or arithmetic.
He used a numerical method to solve the problem.
Olivia
Sep 16, 2023
◉Numeric
(mathematics) Any number, proper or improper fraction, or incommensurable ratio.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numerical
(obsolete) The same in number; hence, identically the same; identical.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numeric
Belonging to number; denoting number; consisting in numbers; expressed by numbers, and not letters; as, numerical characters; a numerical equation; a numerical statement.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numerical
measured or expressed in numbers;
numerical value
the numerical superiority of the enemy
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numeric
The same in number; hence, identically the same; identical; as, the same numerical body.
Would to God that all my fellow brethren, which with me bemoan the loss of their books, . . . might rejoice for the recovery thereof, though not the same numerical volumes.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numerical
of or relating to or denoting numbers;
a numeral adjective
numerical analysis
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numeric
relating to or having ability to think in or work with numbers; as, tests for rating numerical aptitude. Contrasted with verbal.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numerical
designated by or expressed in numbers;
numerical symbols
a very simple numeric code
numerical equations
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numeric
Any number, proper or improper fraction, or incommensurable ratio. The term also includes any imaginary expression like m + n?-1, where m and n are real numerics.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numerical
relating to or having ability to think in or work with numbers;
tests for rating numerical aptitude
a mathematical whiz
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numeric
of or relating to or denoting numbers;
a numeral adjective
numerical analysis
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numerical
Represented by numbers, especially as opposed to words.
The numerical data was plotted on the graph.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
◉Numeric
measured or expressed in numbers;
numerical value
the numerical superiority of the enemy
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numeric
designated by or expressed in numbers;
numerical symbols
a very simple numeric code
numerical equations
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Numeric
Being measurable in terms of numbers.
His strength is not just qualitative but also numeric.
Levi
Sep 16, 2023
Numeric vs. Numerical Frequently Asked Questions
When is numerical more appropriate?
Numerical is more fitting when referring to qualities, behaviors, or methods related to numbers, especially in mathematical contexts.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
Can I use them interchangeably?
In many general contexts, yes. However, in specialized fields, there might be preferred usages.
Nolan
Sep 16, 2023
Are numeric and numerical synonyms?
While closely related, they're not exact synonyms. Numeric often refers directly to numbers, while numerical implies a relation or quality of numbers.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
Which is more common in mathematics?
Numerical, especially in terms like "numerical analysis" or "numerical methods."
Kaitlyn
Sep 16, 2023
Which is prevalent in computing?
Numeric, as in "numeric value" or "numeric datatype."
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
Does numerical always mean mathematical?
Not always. It can simply denote anything related to numbers or counting.
William
Sep 16, 2023
When should I use numeric?
Use numeric when referring directly to numbers, especially in computing or data contexts.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
Do they have different origins?
Both come from the Latin word "numerus," meaning "number," but their modern usages have diverged slightly in context.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
Is there a major difference between numeric and numerical?
In everyday use, the distinction can be subtle, but specific fields might have more defined usages.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 16, 2023
Is numeric about the actual numbers?
Yes, numeric often refers directly to the numbers themselves.
Nolan
Sep 16, 2023
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
