Numeracy: meaning, definitions and examples

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numeracy

 

[ ˈnjuːməˌrəsi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mathematical skills

Numeracy refers to the ability to understand and work with numbers. It involves various skills such as counting, measuring, and basic arithmetic operations. Numeracy is crucial for daily tasks like budgeting, cooking, and managing time. It also plays an important role in education, as students need numeracy skills to excel in math-related subjects. Ultimately, numeracy contributes to one's ability to make informed decisions based on numerical information.

Synonyms

arithmetic skills, mathematical ability, mathematics proficiency, number sense

Examples of usage

  • Children are taught numeracy in early education.
  • Good numeracy skills are essential for financial planning.
  • The job requires a high level of numeracy.
  • Her numeracy skills helped her succeed in her math class.

Translations

Translations of the word "numeracy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 numeracia

🇮🇳 संख्यात्मकता

🇩🇪 Zahlenverständnis

🇮🇩 kemampuan numerik

🇺🇦 чисельність

🇵🇱 umiejętności numeryczne

🇯🇵 数的能力

🇫🇷 numératie

🇪🇸 numeración

🇹🇷 sayısal yetenek

🇰🇷 수리 능력

🇸🇦 المهارات العددية

🇨🇿 numerické dovednosti

🇸🇰 číselné zručnosti

🇨🇳 数字能力

🇸🇮 numerične spretnosti

🇮🇸 tölvufærni

🇰🇿 сандық дағдылар

🇬🇪 რიცხვითი უნარები

🇦🇿 rəqəmsal bacarıqlar

🇲🇽 numeración

Word origin

The term 'numeracy' is derived from the Latin word 'numerus', meaning 'number', combined with the suffix '-acy', which denotes a condition or state. The word emerged in the late 20th century, particularly in the 1980s, as educators and policymakers recognized the importance of numerical skills alongside literacy. The increased focus on numeracy stemmed from concerns about mathematical performance in schools and the growing need for individuals to possess these skills in an increasingly data-driven society. Numeracy has since been integrated into educational frameworks worldwide, emphasizing its role in developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,039, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.