notation
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a set of symbols or signs used to represent things like numbers, musical notes, or chemical elements.
a system of characters or abbreviated expressions used in art, science, mathematics, or logic to represent technical data or quantities.
Simple“Musical notation allows people to play the same song even if they have never heard it before.”
In context“The mathematician developed a new notation to simplify the representation of complex multidimensional vectors.”
UsageOften used with a qualifying adjective like 'musical', 'mathematical', or 'scientific'.
Teacher's tipLearners often confuse this with 'note'. Remind them that 'notation' usually refers to the whole system of symbols, not just one single mark.
- 02 C1 Advanced
a short note or comment written down to record information.
a specific note, mark, or piece of information recorded within a system of representation.
Simple“The lawyer made a small notation in the margin of the contract.”
In context“Upon reviewing the medical records, the doctor found a brief notation regarding the patient's previous allergic reaction to penicillin.”
UsageCountable in this sense.
Teacher's tipThis sense is quite formal. In everyday conversation, most people would simply say 'note' or 'comment'.
Synonyms
From Latin notātiō, equivalent to notate + -ion or note + -ation.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.