math
gb/mˈæθ/ us/mˈæθ/
A1
English
~ 2800
Senses
0 senses
Noun
A1
entity
1
study of numbers and shapes
The study of numbers, shapes, and how they relate to each other.
Usage pattern:
[someone] studies math
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'math' (American English) with 'maths' (British English). Both mean the same thing but are regionally different.
Synonyms
mathematics (More formal and complete term; 'math' is the common shortened form.)
Antonyms
illiteracy in numeracy (Refers to a lack of basic mathematical ability or understanding.)
Collocations
math problem
|math class
|math teacher
|math skills
|math test
Themes
education
|science
|numbers
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- I have a math test tomorrow.
- She enjoys solving math problems in her free time.
- Math is my favorite subject at school.
- He teaches math at the local high school.
- Good math skills are important for many jobs.
Learner examples
- I like math.
- We have math on Monday.
- She is good at math.
- He learns math at school.
Grammar
Dictionary form
math
IPA
GB/mˈæθ/
US/mˈæθ/
Syllables & stress
math (1 syllable)
Stress on 1st syllable (math)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: math
- Plural: math, maths
Word family
Forms
maths
noun
Core family
mathematics
noun B2
mathematical
adjective B1
Related words
mathematician
noun B2
mathematically
adverb
Expressions
do the math
1/dˈu ðə mˈæθ/
idiom
informal
calculate or figure out
To work something out by thinking about the facts or numbers.
Examples
- If each ticket costs $50 and we sold 200 tickets, you can do the math.
- He’s been late three times this week—do the math and you’ll see he’s not reliable.
math problem
1/mˈæθ pɹˈɑbləm/
fixed phrase
question needing mathematical answer
A question that needs you to use math to find the answer.
Examples
- The teacher gave us ten math problems for homework.
- This math problem is too hard for me to solve.
math skills
1/mˈæθ skˈɪlz/
fixed phrase
ability in mathematics
The ability to understand and use math well.
Examples
- Strong math skills are important for engineers.
- She improved her math skills by practicing every day.