Word
multiplying
Phoneticsmul·ti·ply·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈməɫtəˌpɫaɪɪŋ/
UK/mˈʌltɪplˌaɪɪŋ/
Definition
v. increasing a number by adding it to itself a certain number of times. It also means growing quickly in number or amount.
v. performing the mathematical operation of multiplication; increasing significantly in number or quantity through reproduction or accumulation. Present participle of 'multiply'.
Examples
“The children are practicing multiplying small numbers in class today.”
“Rabbits are famous for multiplying quickly when they have enough food and no natural predators.”
“By multiplying the length of the base by the height of the triangle and dividing by two, the students calculated the total area of the geometric shape.”
Examples
simple
“The children are practicing multiplying small numbers in class today.”
contextual
“Rabbits are famous for multiplying quickly when they have enough food and no natural predators.”
complex
“By multiplying the length of the base by the height of the triangle and dividing by two, the students calculated the total area of the geometric shape.”
Usage
The verb is transitive when used in mathematics and often intransitive when describing biological growth.
Pitfall
The population is multiplying itself
The population is multiplying
When describing growth in numbers, 'multiply' is usually intransitive and does not need a reflexive pronoun.
- 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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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