B2verb1K

Multiply

UK /["/ˈmʌltɪplaɪ/","/ˈmʌltɪplaɪz/","/ˈmʌltɪplaɪd/","/ˈmʌltɪplaɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈmʌltɪplaɪ/","/ˈmʌltɪplaɪz/","/ˈmʌltɪplaɪd/","/ˈmʌltɪplaɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to add a number to itself a particular number of times

In simple words: To increase a number by another number.

Examples

  • To find the area of a rectangle, you need to multiply its length by its width.
  • If you multiply two negative numbers, the result will be positive.
  • The teacher asked us to multiply the fractions to find the answer.
  • When you want to increase production, you might need to multiply your efforts.
  • In mathematics, to multiply means to perform the operation of multiplication.

Usage notes

Commonly used in math contexts, suitable for both casual and formal situations. Avoid using in literal sense when discussing general growth or increase.

Grammar pattern

multiply + object + by + number

Memory hint

Think of 'multi' for many — there are many products when you multiply!

Collocations

  • endlessly
  • indefinitely
  • greatly
  • by
  • endlessly
  • indefinitely
  • greatly
  • by
  • endlessly
  • indefinitely
  • greatly
  • by

Synonyms

  • times
  • increase
  • amplify
  • boost
  • enhance

Antonyms

  • divide

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'multiply' with 'add' or 'subtract'.
  • Incorrectly using 'multiply by' when it should be 'multiply with'.
  • Omitting the number when stating the multiplication.