difference quotient; divided difference
Mathematical term used in calculus and numerical analysis. Refers to the expression (f(x+h)-f(x))/h or its discrete analogue.
The difference quotient appears in the definition of the derivative.
In numerical analysis, divided differences are used for approximate differentiation.
Compound of 差分 (difference) and 商 (quotient). A direct calque of the English mathematical term 'difference quotient'.