Word
mathematics
Phoneticsmath·e·mat·ics, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌmæθəˈmætɪks/
UK/mˌæθɪmˈætɪks/
Definitions
01the academic subject
A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun Mathematics
n. the study of numbers, shapes, and how they relate to each other.
n. the abstract representational system studying numbers, shapes, structures, and quantitative change. Uncountable in its primary sense.
日本語:数学※
“She decided to study mathematics at university because she loved solving complex equations.”
“Advanced mathematics provides the theoretical framework necessary for understanding the laws of quantum mechanics and general relativity.”
Usage
Takes a singular verb when referring to the academic discipline.
Pitfall
Mathematics are my favorite subject.
Mathematics is my favorite subject.
Even though the word ends in 's', it is treated as a singular noun when referring to the subject of study.
Teaching tip
In everyday conversation, 'math' is used in American English and 'maths' is used in British English; 'mathematics' is the formal term for both.
Synonyms
02calculation and logic
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun Mathematics
n. the use of numbers and logic to solve a specific problem or explain how something works.
n. the mathematical aspects or operations of a specific situation, problem, or system.
“I don't understand the mathematics behind how this computer chip works.”
“Once you examine the mathematics of the insurance policy, it becomes clear that the long-term costs outweigh the initial benefits.”
Usage
Can occasionally take a plural verb when referring to a set of specific calculations rather than the field of study.
Synonyms
Etymology
1580s; From mathematic (noun) + -ics, from Middle English mathematique, methametik, matematik, matamatik, from Old French mathematique, from Latin mathēmatica (“mathematics”), from Ancient Greek μαθηματικός (mathēmatikós, “on the matter of that which is learned”), from μάθημα (máthēma, “knowledge, study, learning”). Displaced native Old English rīmcræft.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
Related words
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- A2 · ElementaryOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/mathematics
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「日本語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0