Mathematics: meaning, definitions and examples
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mathematics
[ˌmaθəˈmætɪks ]
Definitions
study of numbers
Mathematics is the study of numbers, quantities, and shapes, as well as the relationships between them. It involves logical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Mathematics is used in various fields such as science, engineering, and finance.
Synonyms
arithmetic, math, maths.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mathematics |
Use in formal or academic settings when discussing the field as a whole, including its theoretical aspects.
|
| math |
Informal, commonly used in American English to refer to the subject as a whole. Suitable for casual conversation.
|
| maths |
Informal, commonly used in British English to refer to the subject as a whole. Suitable for casual conversation.
|
| arithmetic |
Best to use when referring specifically to the basic operations of mathematics, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
|
Examples of usage
- Her favorite subject in school was mathematics.
- The professor has a deep understanding of mathematics.
- We use mathematics to calculate the area of a triangle.
subject in school
Mathematics is also a subject taught in schools, where students learn about arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and other mathematical concepts. It helps students develop critical thinking and analytical skills.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mathematics |
Used in formal or academic contexts when referring to the subject as a discipline or field of study.
|
| math |
Commonly used in casual or informal contexts, often in American English.
|
| maths |
Commonly used in casual or informal contexts, often in British English.
|
Examples of usage
- She is struggling with her mathematics homework.
- The mathematics exam is scheduled for next week.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Greek 'mathema' meaning 'knowledge' or 'study'.
- Ancient Egyptians used simple math for building pyramids and keeping track of time and goods.
- Babylonians, around 2000 BC, created a base-60 number system, which still influences how we tell time today.
Pop Culture
- In popular books and movies, characters often use math skills to solve mysteries, like detectives calculating clues.
- The 'Mathletes' concept in movies celebrates students competing in mathematics competitions, showing that math can be fun and competitive.
- Songs like 'The Math Song' by the children's music artist they might sing about numbers and operations in a catchy way.
Science
- Mathematics is the backbone of scientific research, used to create models that explain complex phenomena, such as weather patterns and genetic variations.
- Physics heavily relies on mathematics to express laws of motion and energy, making it essential in the realm of the natural sciences.
- In computer science, algorithms—a set of mathematical instructions—are key to programming and data analysis.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that engaging in mathematical puzzles can enhance cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills.
- Numbers and mathematical concepts can trigger emotional responses, with some people experiencing math anxiety in educational settings.
- Research indicates that practicing math from a young age can lead to improved logical thinking and reasoning skills.
Education
- Mathematics is a core subject in schools worldwide, forming the foundation for many careers, from engineering to finance.
- Different cultures have unique methods for teaching math; for example, Japanese schools emphasize problem-solving and deep understanding.
- The use of technology, like calculators and educational software, is transforming how math is taught and understood in classrooms.
Translations
Translations of the word "mathematics" in other languages:
🇵🇹 matemática
🇮🇳 गणित
🇩🇪 Mathematik
🇮🇩 matematika
🇺🇦 математика
🇵🇱 matematyka
🇯🇵 数学 (すうがく)
🇫🇷 mathématiques
🇪🇸 matemáticas
🇹🇷 matematik
🇰🇷 수학 (su-hak)
🇸🇦 رياضيات
🇨🇿 matematika
🇸🇰 matematika
🇨🇳 数学 (shùxué)
🇸🇮 matematika
🇮🇸 stærðfræði
🇰🇿 математика
🇬🇪 მათემატიკა
🇦🇿 riyaziyyat
🇲🇽 matemáticas