Definition

Relating to a type of function in mathematics where every element in the target set is mapped to by at least one element from the domain.

Example

In mathematics, a function is called surjective if it covers every element in the target set.

Conversation

Hey, do you remember our math class and the term surjective?

Yeah, I think it means something about functions covering all outputs, right?

Exactly! I was trying to explain it to a friend, but I couldn’t get it quite right.

No worries, it's a tricky concept, but once you understand it, it makes sense!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Surjective → It is formed from "sur-" (from Latin "super", meaning over or above) and "ject" (from Latin "jacere", meaning to throw). The term describes a function that 'throws' every element of the codomain 'over' to at least one element in the domain, ensuring that every output is covered.

Memory Tip

Think of 'over' ('sur-') as ensuring that every element is 'thrown' ('ject') to something in the domain, which helps you remember that a surjective function covers all outputs.

Visually Confused Words