Factoring in

[goodstudent]

What does "factoring in" means?

Thanks

[Gillnetter]

What does "factoring in" means?

Thanks

Considering something. When I factor in the cost of fuel it is cheaper to ride a bus to work. Factoring in (considering or placing a value on) the cost of fuel is important when deciding the best way to travel.

[BobK]

Consider:

A Disposable nappies are a greener option than terries. [=washable fabric diapers]
B What? All that paper (and bleach) going into landfill...
A But buying and then running a washing machine - consuming fossil fuels - is a factor in the calculation.

A could have avoided the argument by saying 'Factoring in the costs associated with washing machines, disposable nappies are a greener option than terries.

(Note: I don't advocate either side of this argument. When I was a young father, there were more Bs than As, but there was a growing number of As. I don't follow the arguments nowadays. )

b