ENGLISH
REFERENCE

mathematics

n. uncountable
A2 Elementary Oxford US //ˌmæθəˈmætɪks// UK //mˌæθɪmˈætɪks// math·e·mat·ics General-service

n. the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns. You use it to solve problems by calculating or measuring things.

n. the abstract science of number, quantity, and space. Often treated as a singular entity despite its plural form.


SIMPLE

She enjoys studying mathematics at school.

CONTEXTUAL

Advanced mathematics is essential for anyone planning to pursue a career in structural engineering or computer science.

COMPLEX

The beauty of mathematics lies in its ability to describe complex physical phenomena through elegant and logically consistent equations.

Synonyms
Origin

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.

Usage

Treated as a singular noun despite the 's' ending; verbs following it should be in the singular form.

Pitfall

Mathematics are my favorite subjectMathematics is my favorite subjectNames of academic subjects ending in -ics are singular in construction.

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