LaTeX Epsilon (ε) - Complete Guide

The Greek letter epsilon (ε) is used in mathematics and physics to represent small quantities and perturbations.

Symbol Preview

Epsilon

LaTeX Code

Method 1: Using \epsilon

No package required

Recommended

\epsilon

Standard epsilon symbol

Method 2: Using \varepsilon

Requires: \usepackage{cmd.package}

\varepsilon

Alternative epsilon symbol (more curved)

What is the LaTeX Epsilon?

Epsilon is the fifth letter of the Greek alphabet. In mathematics and physics, epsilon typically represents a small positive quantity used in limit proofs, error bounds, and perturbation theory. LaTeX provides both the standard form (\epsilon) and an alternative curved form (\varepsilon).

How to Use Epsilon in LaTeX

Method 1: Using \epsilon

✅No package required

Standard epsilon symbol

Example: Using \epsilon

latex

\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

% Using the Epsilon
Text with \epsilon

\end{document}

Method 2: Using \varepsilon

⚠️Required Package:

\usepackage{cmd.package}

Alternative epsilon symbol (more curved)

Example: Using \varepsilon

latex

\documentclass{article}
\usepackage{amssymb}
\begin{document}

% Using the Epsilon
Text with \varepsilon

\end{document}

Common Use Cases

The Epsilon symbol is commonly used in the following contexts:

Limits and Continuity

Used in epsilon-delta definitions of limits.

Code

For every $\epsilon > 0$, there exists $\delta > 0$ such that...

Output

For every ε > 0, there exists δ > 0 such that...

Error Bounds

Represents small error terms in approximations.

Code

The error is bounded by $\epsilon = 0.001$

Output

The error is bounded by ε = 0.001

Complete Examples

Epsilon-Delta Definition

Classic epsilon-delta definition of continuity

latex

\documentclass{article}
\begin{document}

A function $f$ is continuous at $c$ if for every $\epsilon > 0$, there exists $\delta > 0$ such that $|x - c| < \delta$ implies $|f(x) - f(c)| < \epsilon$.

\end{document}

Frequently Asked Questions

Which method should I use?

We recommend using the method marked as "Recommended" above. However, the best method depends on your specific needs:

\epsilon: Standard epsilon symbol
\varepsilon: Alternative epsilon symbol (more curved)

Where do I use this symbol?

This symbol can be used:

In mathematical equations (math mode)
In regular text (if using text mode)
In various document environments

Can I use this in display mode?

Yes, symbols that work in math mode (between $ $) also work in display mode (between $$ $$). This allows you to display the symbol on its own line with larger formatting.

🔗 Related Symbols You May Need

Delta

\delta

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\zeta

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