Meaning & use
math
Last updated
Meaning
noununcountableAmericaninformal
The study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and the relationships between them; an informal short form of 'mathematics'.
Grammar: Used as an uncountable noun: 'Math is my favorite subject.' In British English, 'maths' is used instead.
Patterns
- do math
- study math
- a math test
I have a math test tomorrow, so I need to study.
She's really good at math and science.
He teaches math at the local high school.
Common combinations
- math class
- I have math class first thing in the morning.
- math problem
- Can you help me solve this math problem?
- do math
- I need to do some math to figure out the budget.
- math teacher
- Our math teacher is very strict.
Synonyms and how they differ
- mathematics
- The full, formal term; 'math' is informal and mainly American.
- maths
- The British equivalent of 'math'; use 'maths' in British English.
Word family
- mathematical adjective
- Relating to mathematics.
- mathematician noun
- A person who studies or is an expert in mathematics.
Commonly confused: math or maths?
math vs maths
British English uses 'maths' where American English uses 'math'. They mean the same thing.
Practice
In British English, the short form of 'mathematics' is ___.
Choose one answer.
British English uses 'maths' (with an 's'), while American English uses 'math'. 'Mathematic' and 'mathmatic' are not standard forms.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “math”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.