© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

injective

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɪnˈdʒɛktɪv/

KK: /ɪnˈdʒɛktɪv/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a type of function in mathematics where each input is linked to a unique output, meaning no two different inputs produce the same output.


Example

In mathematics, an injective function ensures that each element in the domain maps to a distinct element in the range.


Conversation
Sloth A
I learned about injective functions in math class today.
Sloth B
Oh really? What does that mean?
Sloth A
It means that each input has a unique output; they're one-to-one.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I never realized math could be so cool.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
one-to-one
unique
distinct
Antonyms
noninjective
many-to-one
ambiguous
Root Explanation

Injective → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "jacere" (meaning to throw). The word "injective" describes a function that throws or maps elements into another set in a specific way, ensuring that distinct elements in the domain map to distinct elements in the codomain.

Memory Tip

Think of 'throwing' ('jacere') something 'into' ('in-') another place — that's why injective refers to a function that maps elements distinctly into another set.

Visually Confused Words
invective
infective
introjective
inspective
injunctive
inflective
conjective
incitive
Is this page helpful?