ENGLISH
REFERENCE

maths

n.
maths
  1. 1 the study of numbers (n.)
    A2 Elementary British English Math

    the study of numbers, shapes, and calculations.

    the science of numbers and their operations, interrelations, combinations, and abstractions. Uncountable; treated as a singular noun despite the final 's'.

    Example

    I was never very good at maths when I was in primary school.

    Example

    The curriculum places a heavy emphasis on advanced maths, requiring students to master calculus before their final year of secondary education.

    Usage

    Always used with a singular verb (e.g., 'maths is...').

    Teacher's tip

    This is the standard form in British, Australian, and New Zealand English. In American and Canadian English, the form 'math' is used instead.
    Pitfall
    Maths are my favorite subject.
    Maths is my favorite subject.

    Even though 'maths' ends in 's', it is a singular noun and takes a singular verb.

Origin

Contraction of mathematics.

Word family

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