Learn English – How to read the differential mark aloud

mathematicsreading-aloudsymbols

a mathematical expression with differentials in it

How do you read the differential mark?

Best Answer

Formally, The derivative of...

In full:

Y equals the sine of f-of-x, implies that the derivative of y equals cos f-of-x times the derivative of f of x.

Informally, and depending on dialect, you can say either 'prime' (as per Humbulani's answer) or 'dash' - f prime of x, y-dash etc. The former is predominant in (but is not restricted to) the US, while the latter is relatively common in the wider Anglosphere.

Refer to: How do you pronounce the symbol ' in f'? and What is the practical difference between a differential and a derivative? for further information.