Definition
Output
An output is the value a function or rule produces for a particular input.
What it means
Start with an input, follow the rule, and read the value that comes out. That result is the output for that input. It belongs to an input-output relationship, not just to any calculation called an answer.
Remember it
Output is what comes out after the rule acts.
Example
For y = x + 5, use input x = 7. The rule gives 7 + 5 = 12, so 12 is the output paired with input 7.
Watch for
In y = x + 5, the constant 5 is part of the rule; it is not the output unless a chosen input actually produces 5.
Common mix-up
Outputs can repeat for different inputs; a function only forbids one input from receiving two outputs.
Exact meaning
An output is the value a function or rule assigns after receiving an input. The possible outputs make up the range, and different inputs may produce the same output.