A2noun 1K

Maths

UK /["/mæθs/","/mæθ/"]/ US /["/mæθs/","/mæθ/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

mathematics, especially as a subject in school

Listen to definition

In simple words: The subject that deals with numbers, shapes, and calculations.

Examples

• The core subjects are English, maths and science.
• a maths teacher
• I was taught to use Venn diagrams in the maths class.
• Those expert in maths and technology were not always good managers of people.
• Council tax inspectors are being given maths lessons.
• If my maths is/are right, the answer is 142.
• The class was struggling to find the solution to a maths problem.
• Working out the quantities of the ingredients involved some complicated maths.
• Do the maths before you take on more debt.
• If only someone had done the maths!

Usage notes

Used in academic and everyday contexts. Avoid in very formal writing where 'mathematics' is preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'maths' as the 's' means it's more than one type, like addition and subtraction.

Collocations

• applied
• pure
• basic
• problem
• class
• lesson

Synonyms

• mathematics
• calculation
• arithmetic
• geometry

Antonyms

• art
• literature

Common mistakes

• Using 'math' instead of 'maths' in British English contexts.
• Confusing the term with other subjects like science or physics.
• Spelling it incorrectly as 'mathematic'.