Translation for the word "variable"


Is there any _real_ translation for the word "variable" meaning the general
concept of "a changing _something_ " ?

Edit: Similar words are "parameters", "elements", "requirements".

_Example / Context_ :  

  * "There are too many variables to find the perfect location for the movies": time, distance, habit, preference,...
  * "What are you going to do today?", "The answer to this question has too many variables."
  * (programming in general)

**Problem with "変数"**  
In general the word "variable" is translated as "変数". However, this is a wrong
translation in many cases, as the Japanese literally means "variable number".
This _might_ make sense in calculus ( _not math_ ), where this translation
probably stems from, but it does not represent the actual meaning of
_variable_.

Edit: **Background**  
I use the word "variable" fairly often in English, so I need an understandable
equivalent. "変数" works in Math and Advanced programming, but not in everyday
parlance. Among other problems I encountered people wondering why I am
suddenly talking about numbers.

Edit: **Towards the solution** (from the comments)  

  * パラメーター is difficult, as it's not Japanese
  * 変動要因 seems a little difficult to understand, but
  * 要因 sounds like a very good fit for everyday parlance.




IMO 変数 is not bad even in the context you provided. 変数 in math and programming
contexts can safely hold non-numerical values such as strings, sets and
functions. Still, if you do want to avoid 数, you can also use 変動要因 or パラメーター
at least in that context.

**EDIT:** 不確定要素 is another common phrase that can be used in this context.
[This entry](https://eow.alc.co.jp/search?q=variable) has an example. (And I'd
say it's very common despite its length; rest assured that any native Japanese
adult understands this.)

