math/maths
math/maths
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "math" and "maths" are:
math: /mæθ/
/mæθ/
maths: /mæθs/
/mæθs/
Word Form Variations
Noun: math (uncountable, singular in American English), maths (uncountable, singular in British English and often in Commonwealth English like Kenya)
Adjective: math (used attributively, e.g., "math class," "math problem") - no comparative/superlative forms.
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Noun
Definition 1: The study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and the relationships between them, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and calculus. It is a fundamental academic discipline that deals with logic and reasoning.
Synonyms: mathematics, arithmetic, calculation, geometry, algebra, calculus
Antonyms: humanities, literature, arts, philosophy (as contrasting academic fields)
Definition 2: (Informal) Calculations or numerical operations.
Synonyms: computation, sums (British), figures, reckoning, numbers
Antonyms: estimation, guesswork, approximation, intuition
Definition 3: (Informal) A challenging or complex problem or situation, especially one requiring logical analysis or difficult computation.
Synonyms: puzzle, conundrum, complexity, challenge, brain-teaser
Antonyms: simple matter, easy task, straightforward problem
Note: "Math" and "maths" are primarily used as nouns or attributive adjectives. They do not typically function as verbs or adverbs. The plural "maths" functions as a singular uncountable noun in British/Commonwealth English.
Examples of Use
Books:
"For many students, advanced math proved to be the most challenging subject in the curriculum." (From an educational textbook on mathematics)
"She had a natural aptitude for maths, solving complex equations with surprising ease." (From a novel describing a gifted character)
"The book delves into the complex math behind quantum physics, explaining theories through accessible examples." (From a popular science book, e.g., A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking)
Newspapers:
"Kenya's Ministry of Education announced new reforms aimed at improving performance in maths at the primary school level." ("Daily Nation,")
"Data scientists rely heavily on advanced math to build predictive models and analyze large datasets." ("Business Daily Africa,")
"Students across the UK are preparing for their end-of-year maths exams, with concerns about curriculum difficulty." ("The Guardian,")
Online Publications:
"Khan Academy offers free online courses and practice exercises for all levels of math, from kindergarten to calculus." (From Khan Academy website)
"The future of AI lies in its ability to master complex mathmatical algorithms that mimic human intelligence." (From an article on "Wired.com,")
"Parents search for innovative ways to make learning math fun for their children at home." (From a parenting blog, e.g., Scholastic Parents)
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
Film: "The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science." (Implies the beauty in complex math, as expressed in films about scientists like A Beautiful Mind.)
Television Series: "Tonight's challenge: solve this intricate math puzzle to unlock the next clue!" (From a game show or reality competition, e.g., The Amazing Race)
Song Lyrics: "No more teachers, no more books, no more dirty looks. Just good ol' rock and roll." (This reflects a common sentiment against academic subjects like math, often sung in rock anthems.)
Video Games: "Your character's agility score directly affects your dodge chance, based on complex internal math." (In-game tutorial or hint in an RPG, e.g., Baldur's Gate 3)
Podcasts: "In this episode, we explore the math behind successful investing, breaking down complex financial models." (From a finance or economics podcast, e.g., Planet Money)
General Public Discourse:
"I'm really struggling with my math homework; it's so hard!" (A common complaint from a student)
"You need to do the maths carefully before you commit to that budget." (Giving advice in a personal finance discussion)
"My child loves math games on their tablet; it helps them learn without realizing it." (A parent discussing educational tools)
"There's some serious math involved in building a skyscraper, from structural integrity to material loads." (Discussing engineering challenges)
"I always hated math in school, but now I use it every day at my job." (A common realization about practical application)
10 Quotes Using Math/Maths
"Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas." – Albert Einstein
"Mathematics is the most beautiful and most powerful creation of the human spirit." – Stefan Banach
"In mathematics, the art of proposing a question must be held of higher value than solving it." – Georg Cantor
"Without mathematics, there’s nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers." – Shakuntala Devi
"Do not worry too much about your difficulties in mathematics, I can assure you that mine are still greater." – Albert Einstein
"Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations, or algorithms: it is about understanding." – William Paul Thurston
"Mathematics knows no races or geographic boundaries; for mathematics, the cultural world is one country." – David Hilbert
"Math is like love – a simple idea but it can get complicated." – R. Drabek
"Mathematics allows for no hypocrisy and no vagueness." – Stendhal
"It is clear that the chief end of mathematical study must be to make the students think." – John Wesley Young
Etymology
The words "math" and "maths" are both shortened forms of the word "mathematics."
The word "mathematics" comes from the Ancient Greek word máthēma (μάθημα), which literally meant "something learned," "knowledge," or "study." It could also specifically refer to "mathematical study." This Greek word traces back to a verb meaning "to learn."
The term "mathematics" entered the English language in the late 14th century (Middle English period), primarily through Latin and French, initially meaning "mathematical science."
Interestingly, for a while (until about the 18th century), "mathematics" could also refer to astrology or astronomy before its meaning narrowed to the abstract science of numbers, quantities, and shapes that we recognize today.
The informal shortened forms, "math" and "maths," developed much later:
"Math" (primarily American English) is first recorded as an abbreviation around 1890.
"Maths" (primarily British and Commonwealth English) is attested a bit later, from 1911.
So, while the full word "mathematics" is quite old, its popular, shorter versions are relatively modern additions to the English vocabulary.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Math/Maths
Do the math/maths: To calculate or consider the figures involved to understand a situation.
New math: (Historical) A style of teaching mathematics that was introduced in the 1960s, often used to refer to anything perceived as overly complicated or confusing.
Common core math: (US specific) A set of educational standards for mathematics in K-12 education.
Mental math/maths: Calculations performed entirely in one's head without writing anything down.
Fuzzy math: (Informal) Calculations or statistics that are unclear, misleading, or designed to obscure the truth.
Mathlete: (Informal) A person who excels at mathematics, especially in competitions.
The numbers game: A situation where success is based purely on statistics or probability. (Synonym for a "math"-driven scenario)
By my calculations: Based on my estimations or computations. (Synonym for "doing the math")
Pure math/maths: Mathematics studied for its own sake, rather than for its practical applications.
Applied math/maths: Mathematics concerned with the application of mathematical knowledge to other domains.
To crunch the numbers: To perform extensive calculations, especially for analysis. (Synonym for "doing complex math")
It doesn't add up: Something that doesn't make logical sense or seems inconsistent. (Relates to the principles of math)
The calculus of decision: The complex considerations involved in making a choice. (Synonymous with the intricate "math" of choices)
Beyond the numbers: Referring to aspects that cannot be quantified or calculated. (Antonym for focusing solely on "math")
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of math/maths from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
