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substitute

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substitute

In mathematics, to put values in the place of variables in an algebraic expression or formula. An algebraic expansion or simplification can be checked by substituting simple values for each variable. For example, to check that

x3 + y3 = (x + y)(x2 + y2 − xy)

the value x = 1 and y = 2 might be substituted in both sides of the expression, giving

left-hand side: 13 + 23 = 1 + 8 = 9

right-hand side: (1 + 2)(12 + 22 − 2) = 3 × 3 = 9.

The two sides are the same, so the expansion of x3 + y3 is correct.
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? Mentioned in ? References in classic literature
 
"Even our digestion is governed by angels," said Blake; and if you will resist the trivial inclination to substitute "bad angels," is there really any greater mystery than the process by which beef is turned into brains, and beer into beauty?
The Quest of the Golden Girl by le Gallienne, Richard View in context
I know there is an ingenious substitute, as the following little dialogue will show, but my early education under the astronomer and the delicate minded Adrienne, has rendered me averse to false taste, and I find the substitute as disagreeable as the original.
Autobiography of a Pocket-Handkerchief by Cooper, James Fenimore View in context
Now beer is a poor substitute for strong waters: besides, I didn't like beer, yet all I could think of was that beer so singularly accessible in the bottom of the cabinet.
John Barleycorn by London, Jack View in context
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