mathematics

mathematics — noun

1. the academic subject that explores quantities, shapes, and patterns by working w

1.nounB1
Definition

the academic subject that explores quantities, shapes, and patterns by working with numbers, symbols, and logical rules — for instance, calculating a bill, measuring a wall, or solving an equation.

Example

Folake has been studying mathematics since she was in primary school.

collocation: study mathematics

The practical uses of mathematics appear everywhere, from cooking to construction.

Common collocations
  • study mathematics
  • learn mathematics
  • mathematics teacher
  • mathematics problem
  • mathematics homework
  • mathematics exam
Synonyms
  • math

    informal shortened form, used mainly in American English

  • maths

    informal shortened form, used mainly in British English; also takes a singular verb

Grammar Patterns

mathematics + singular verb (e.g. Mathematics is…)

Usage Note

Mathematics is an uncountable noun and always takes a singular verb: 'Mathematics is an important subject.' In American English it is commonly shortened to 'math'; in British English the short form is 'maths' (also treated as singular).

Common Mistakes

The mathematics are very complex.
Mathematics is very complex.
'mathematics' is uncountable and always takes a singular verb.
I am good in mathematics.
I am good at mathematics.
The correct preposition after 'good' or 'bad' when referring to a school subject is 'at', not 'in'.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

Mathematics is the broadest term — it covers the entire field of numbers, shapes, patterns, and logical reasoning. Arithmetic is the most basic branch of mathematics, dealing only with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of ordinary numbers. Algebra extends arithmetic by using letters and symbols to represent unknown values and relationships. Geometry focuses on the properties and relationships of points, lines, surfaces, and solid shapes. If you are adding up a shopping bill, you are using arithmetic; if you are working out an equation like x + 5 = 12, you are doing algebra; if you are calculating the area of a circle, that is geometry. All three are part of mathematics.

mathematics ↗arithmetic ↗algebra ↗geometry ↗

Common collocations

Nouns

Prepositions

  • at mathematics
  • in mathematics

Etymology

GreekLatinEnglish

Mathematics comes from the Greek word mathēmatikē, meaning 'the art of learning.' Its root mathēma means 'knowledge' or 'something that is learnt.' The word passed through Latin (mathematica) and into English. Originally it referred to any kind of learning, but over time it narrowed to the study of numbers, quantities, and shapes.