用你的语言查看此页面

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

हिन्दी

首页
学习
英语
词汇
mathematics

A1 noun #1,500 最常用 11分钟阅读

mathematics

前1,500

At the A1 level, 'mathematics' is simply the word for the school subject where you learn about numbers. You use it to say what you are studying or what you like. For example, 'I have a mathematics class today.' It is a basic noun that helps you talk about your daily schedule and basic interests. You might also know it as 'math' or 'maths'. At this stage, you don't need to know the complex branches, just that it involves counting and simple sums.

At the A2 level, you can use 'mathematics' to describe your skills and preferences in more detail. You might say, 'I am good at mathematics,' or 'Mathematics is difficult for me.' You understand that it is a singular noun even though it ends in 's'. You can also use it to talk about jobs, like 'A teacher teaches mathematics.' You are beginning to see that mathematics is used in many places, not just in a classroom, such as when you go shopping or tell the time.

At the B1 level, you can discuss the importance of mathematics in different careers and everyday life. You can explain why mathematics is useful for solving problems. You might say, 'Mathematics is essential for understanding how the economy works.' You are also familiar with related words like 'calculation' or 'formula'. You can use the word in more complex sentences, such as 'The mathematics involved in building a house are quite complex,' and you understand the difference between 'pure' and 'applied' concepts in a general sense.

At the B2 level, you can use 'mathematics' to talk about abstract concepts and logical reasoning. You can participate in discussions about the school curriculum or the role of technology in mathematics. You might use phrases like 'mathematical model' or 'mathematical proof'. You understand the nuances of the word and can use it in formal academic writing. You can also distinguish between the different branches of mathematics, like algebra and geometry, and explain how they contribute to the field as a whole.

At the C1 level, you use 'mathematics' with precision and sophistication. You can discuss the philosophical implications of mathematics—whether it is discovered or invented. You are comfortable using the word in highly technical or academic contexts, such as 'The mathematics of quantum mechanics challenges our traditional understanding of reality.' You can use the word to describe complex systems and patterns in nature, art, and music. Your vocabulary includes many related terms, and you can switch between formal and informal registers effortlessly.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word 'mathematics'. You can use it to discuss the most advanced theoretical concepts and their historical development. You can critique mathematical arguments and discuss the intersection of mathematics with other high-level disciplines like linguistics or metaphysics. You understand the most subtle idioms and cultural references related to mathematics. For you, mathematics is not just a subject but a fundamental lens through which the entire universe can be analyzed and understood.

开始练习例句笔记与提示

mathematics 30秒了解

Mathematics is the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns using logic.
It is a singular noun, even though it ends with the letter 's'.
The word is often shortened to 'math' in the US and 'maths' in the UK.
It is a fundamental science used in almost every professional field today.

At its most fundamental level, mathematics is the universal language of logic and structure. It is not merely a school subject involving numbers on a chalkboard; it is the systematic study of the relationships between quantities, the properties of shapes, and the patterns that govern the universe. From the simple act of counting apples to the complex calculations required to send a rover to Mars, mathematics provides the framework for understanding reality. It is often described as the 'queen of sciences' because it provides the essential tools used in physics, chemistry, biology, and economics. When we speak of mathematics, we are referring to a broad discipline that encompasses various branches such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. Each branch serves a specific purpose, yet they are all interconnected by the core principles of deductive reasoning and symbolic representation.

Abstract Nature: Mathematics deals with abstract concepts that exist independently of the physical world, yet perfectly describe it.

The beauty of mathematics lies in its absolute certainty and logical consistency.

Historically, mathematics evolved from the practical needs of early civilizations. The ancient Egyptians used geometry to survey land after the Nile flooded, while the Babylonians developed advanced arithmetic for trade and astronomy. Over centuries, it transformed into a rigorous academic pursuit. Today, we distinguish between 'pure mathematics,' which explores concepts for their own sake, and 'applied mathematics,' which focuses on solving real-world problems. Whether you are calculating the interest on a bank loan or designing the architecture of a skyscraper, you are engaging with the profound legacy of mathematical thought. It is a discipline built on axioms—self-evident truths—from which all other theorems and laws are derived through careful proof.

Quantitative Analysis: The process of using mathematical and statistical modeling to understand behavior and patterns.

Without mathematics, modern technology like smartphones and the internet would not exist.

Furthermore, mathematics fosters critical thinking skills. It teaches individuals how to break down complex problems into manageable parts, how to identify relevant data, and how to construct logical arguments. In the modern era, the rise of big data and artificial intelligence has made mathematical literacy more important than ever. Algorithms, which are the heart of our digital lives, are essentially long strings of mathematical instructions. Understanding mathematics allows us to navigate a world increasingly defined by data and logic.

She decided to pursue a degree in mathematics because she enjoyed the challenge of complex proofs.

Symbolism: The use of symbols like π, Σ, and ∞ to represent complex ideas concisely.

Ancient civilizations used mathematics to build the pyramids with incredible precision.

In high school, mathematics becomes more abstract with the introduction of variables.

Using the word mathematics correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a singular noun, despite the 's' at the end. In formal writing and academic contexts, it is the preferred term over the colloquial 'math' or 'maths'. You use it when discussing the field of study as a whole, specific curricula, or the application of numerical logic to a problem. For example, one might say, 'Mathematics is a requirement for engineering students,' rather than 'Mathematics are...' This singular treatment is a common point of confusion for learners.

Academic Context: Used to describe departments, degrees, and formal research (e.g., Department of Mathematics).

The professor published a groundbreaking paper in the field of applied mathematics.

In everyday conversation, 'mathematics' is often used to emphasize the complexity or the rigorous nature of a task. If someone says, 'The mathematics of the deal don't add up,' they are referring to the underlying calculations or financial logic. It can also be used as an adjective in the form 'mathematical,' but the noun 'mathematics' is essential for identifying the discipline itself. When writing a resume or a formal application, always use the full word to convey a sense of professionalism and academic depth.

Professional Usage: Common in job descriptions for data scientists, actuaries, and engineers.

Advanced mathematics is essential for understanding quantum physics.

Furthermore, the word is often paired with adjectives to specify a branch. 'Pure mathematics' refers to the study of mathematical concepts for their own sake, while 'discrete mathematics' is the study of mathematical structures that are fundamentally discrete rather than continuous. When you are talking about the school subject for young children, you might still use 'mathematics' in a formal report, even if the children themselves call it 'sums' or 'math'. It provides a level of dignity to the subject matter.

We need to apply higher-level mathematics to solve this encryption problem.

Colloquial vs Formal: 'Math' (US) and 'Maths' (UK) are for daily talk; 'Mathematics' is for textbooks and titles.

The mathematics behind the bridge's design took years to perfect.

A strong foundation in mathematics opens doors to many career paths.

The word mathematics resonates through the halls of academia, but its echoes are heard in many other spheres of life. In educational settings, from primary schools to universities, it is a staple of the curriculum. You will hear it in orientation speeches, graduation ceremonies, and during parent-teacher conferences. In the professional world, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, the term is used to define the rigorous standards of analysis required for innovation. Engineers discuss the mathematics of structural integrity, while data scientists reference the mathematics of machine learning algorithms.

In Media: Documentaries about space, nature, or technology frequently use the term to explain complex phenomena.

The narrator explained how mathematics describes the spiral patterns in galaxies.

In the financial sector, 'mathematics' is a common term used by analysts and economists. They speak of the 'mathematics of risk' or the 'mathematics of the market' when describing the statistical models used to predict economic shifts. Even in politics, you might hear the term during election cycles when pundits discuss the 'mathematics of the electoral college' or the 'mathematics of a majority vote.' In these contexts, the word signifies a shift from emotional or ideological arguments to hard, indisputable facts and figures.

In Tech: Software developers often refer to the underlying mathematics of encryption and data compression.

The CEO emphasized that the company's success was built on solid mathematics.

Furthermore, you will find the word in literature and philosophy. Philosophers often debate whether mathematics is a human invention or a discovery of pre-existing truths. In science fiction, 'mathematics' is often portrayed as the ultimate tool for communicating with alien species, based on the idea that math is a universal constant. Whether you are watching a TED Talk on the beauty of fractals or reading a biography of Albert Einstein, the word 'mathematics' serves as a bridge between the human mind and the complexities of the physical world.

During the lecture, the guest speaker discussed the role of mathematics in Renaissance art.

Everyday Phrases: 'Do the math' is a common idiom meaning 'think about the logical outcome'.

The architect used mathematics to ensure the dome would not collapse.

In the movie, the genius solved a mathematics problem that had been unsolved for decades.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with the word mathematics is treating it as a plural noun. Because it ends in 's', many assume it should take a plural verb. However, 'mathematics' is an uncountable noun referring to a single field of study. Therefore, you should always say 'Mathematics is my favorite subject,' not 'Mathematics are my favorite subject.' This rule also applies to other academic subjects ending in 's', such as physics, economics, and politics. Confusing this can make your English sound non-native or unpolished.

Subject-Verb Agreement: Always use singular verbs: 'Mathematics provides...', 'Mathematics involves...', 'Mathematics has...'.

Incorrect: Mathematics are difficult. Correct: Mathematics is difficult.

Another common mistake is the confusion between 'math' and 'maths'. While both are abbreviations for mathematics, 'math' is exclusively used in American and Canadian English, whereas 'maths' is used in British, Australian, and other varieties of English. Using 'maths' in a US classroom or 'math' in a UK school isn't technically 'wrong' in terms of meaning, but it will stand out as a regional mismatch. Furthermore, learners sometimes use the word 'mathematic' as a noun. 'Mathematic' is rarely used; the correct noun is 'mathematics' and the correct adjective is 'mathematical'.

Spelling Errors: Common misspellings include 'mathmatics' (missing the 'e') or 'mathematics' (with double 'm').

He is studying mathematics (not mathmatics) at the university.

Lastly, people often confuse 'mathematics' with 'arithmetic'. Arithmetic is just a small part of mathematics—the part dealing with basic operations like addition and subtraction. Using 'mathematics' when you specifically mean 'simple addition' can sound overly formal, while using 'arithmetic' to describe a calculus course is inaccurate. Precision in choosing between the broad field and its specific sub-disciplines is key to clear communication.

The mathematics of the problem were (Incorrect) -> was (Correct) very complex.

Adjective Confusion: Use 'mathematical' for descriptions (e.g., mathematical formula) and 'mathematics' for the subject.

She has a mathematical mind, which helps her in mathematics class.

Don't say 'I have a mathematics test' if you want to sound natural; say 'math test' or 'maths test'.

Understanding mathematics involves knowing how it relates to and differs from similar terms. While 'mathematics' is the umbrella term, words like 'arithmetic', 'algebra', 'geometry', and 'statistics' describe its various branches. Arithmetic is the most basic, focusing on numbers and basic operations. Algebra introduces variables and symbols to represent numbers in equations. Geometry deals with the properties and relations of points, lines, surfaces, and solids. Statistics involves the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of masses of numerical data. Knowing these distinctions helps you describe exactly what kind of mathematical work you are doing.

Arithmetic vs Mathematics: Arithmetic is the 'how-to' of numbers; mathematics is the 'why' and the broader theory.

While he was good at arithmetic, he struggled with the abstract concepts of higher mathematics.

Another set of related words includes 'calculation', 'computation', and 'analysis'. A calculation is a single mathematical act (like 2+2). Computation often refers to calculations performed by a machine or a computer. Analysis is a more advanced term, often referring to the detailed examination of mathematical structures or data. In a professional setting, you might 'perform a calculation' using 'mathematical analysis'. Additionally, the word 'numeracy' is often used to describe the ability to understand and work with numbers, similar to how 'literacy' describes the ability to read and write. While mathematics is a field of study, numeracy is a skill.

Calculus: A specific branch of mathematics dealing with rates of change and accumulation of quantities.

The transition from algebra to mathematics like calculus can be challenging for many students.

Finally, consider the difference between 'pure' and 'applied' mathematics. Pure mathematics is theoretical and abstract, seeking to find new theorems regardless of their immediate use. Applied mathematics uses these theories to solve practical problems in fields like physics, engineering, or finance. When you hear someone called a 'mathematician', they could be working in either of these areas. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise communication in academic and professional environments.

She specializes in discrete mathematics, which is vital for computer science.

Logic: The foundation of mathematics, focusing on the principles of valid reasoning.

To understand the mathematics of music, one must look at the physics of sound waves.

The mathematics department is located in the oldest building on campus.

How Formal Is It?

正式

非正式

难度评级

需要掌握的语法

按水平分级的例句

I like mathematics.

J'aime les mathématiques.

Mathematics is a singular noun.

Mathematics is fun.

Les mathématiques sont amusantes.

Use 'is' with mathematics.

We study mathematics at school.

Nous étudions les mathématiques à l'école.

Subject-verb-object structure.

My mathematics teacher is nice.

Mon professeur de mathématiques est gentil.

Mathematics acts as a modifier here.

Do you like mathematics?

Aimes-tu les mathématiques ?

Question form with 'do'.

I have a mathematics book.

J'ai un livre de mathématiques.

Indefinite article 'a'.

Mathematics is on Monday.

Les mathématiques sont le lundi.

Talking about a schedule.

One plus one is mathematics.

Un plus un, c'est des mathématiques.

Simple definition.

Mathematics is an important subject.

Les mathématiques sont une matière importante.

Adjective 'important' modifying 'subject'.

She is very good at mathematics.

Elle est très douée en mathématiques.

Preposition 'at' follows 'good'.

I use mathematics every day.

J'utilise les mathématiques tous les jours.

Adverbial phrase 'every day'.

Is mathematics difficult for you?

Les mathématiques sont-elles difficiles pour toi ?

Interrogative sentence.

He wants to study mathematics at university.

Il veut étudier les mathématiques à l'université.

Infinitive 'to study'.

Mathematics helps us count money.

Les mathématiques nous aident à compter l'argent.

Third-person singular 'helps'.

There are many numbers in mathematics.

Il y a beaucoup de chiffres en mathématiques.

'There are' for plural 'numbers'.

I need help with my mathematics homework.

J'ai besoin d'aide pour mes devoirs de mathématiques.

Preposition 'with'.

Mathematics is the foundation of modern science.

Les mathématiques sont le fondement de la science moderne.

Definite article 'the' for a specific concept.

You need a basic understanding of mathematics for this job.

Vous avez besoin d'une compréhension de base des mathématiques pour ce travail.

Noun phrase 'basic understanding of'.

The mathematics of the project are quite complex.

La mathématique du projet est assez complexe.

Note: In this specific context, 'mathematics' can sometimes take a plural verb if referring to specific calculations, but singular is safer.

He decided to major in mathematics.

Il a décidé de se spécialiser en mathématiques.

Phrasal verb 'major in'.

Mathematics can be used to predict the weather.

Les mathématiques peuvent être utilisées pour prédire la météo.

Passive voice 'can be used'.

She has a passion for mathematics and logic.

Elle a une passion pour les mathématiques et la logique.

Parallel structure 'mathematics and logic'.

The history of mathematics is very long.

L'histoire des mathématiques est très longue.

Genitive 'of' construction.

Mathematics is not just about numbers; it's about patterns.

Les mathématiques ne concernent pas seulement les chiffres ; il s'agit de motifs.

Negative construction 'not just about'.

The mathematics behind the encryption are very sophisticated.

Les mathématiques derrière le cryptage sont très sophistiquées.

Plural verb used here to refer to the set of calculations.

Applied mathematics is used in various engineering fields.

Les mathématiques appliquées sont utilisées dans divers domaines de l'ingénierie.

Compound noun 'Applied mathematics'.

She published a paper on the mathematics of fluid dynamics.

Elle a publié un article sur les mathématiques de la dynamique des fluides.

Preposition 'on' for a topic.

Mathematics requires a high level of abstract thinking.

Les mathématiques exigent un haut niveau de pensée abstraite.

Abstract noun 'thinking'.

The curriculum focuses on both pure and applied mathematics.

Le programme se concentre à la fois sur les mathématiques pures et appliquées.

Correlative conjunction 'both... and'.

He struggled with the advanced mathematics required for the course.

Il a eu du mal avec les mathématiques avancées requises pour le cours.

Past participle 'required' as an adjective.

Mathematics is often considered a universal language.

Les mathématiques sont souvent considérées comme une langue universelle.

Adverb 'often' placement.

The beauty of mathematics lies in its logical consistency.

La beauté des mathématiques réside dans leur cohérence logique.

Possessive adjective 'its'.

The mathematics of quantum mechanics is notoriously counter-intuitive.

La mathématique de la mécanique quantique est notoirement contre-intuitive.

Adverb 'notoriously' modifying an adjective.

He explores the intersection of mathematics and philosophy.

Il explore l'intersection des mathématiques et de la philosophie.

Noun 'intersection'.

The rigorous mathematics of the proof left no room for doubt.

La mathématique rigoureuse de la preuve n'a laissé aucune place au doute.

Negative 'no room for'.

She has a profound understanding of discrete mathematics.

Elle a une compréhension profonde des mathématiques discrètes.

Adjective 'profound'.

Mathematics provides a framework for modeling complex systems.

Les mathématiques fournissent un cadre pour modéliser des systèmes complexes.

Gerund 'modeling'.

The study of mathematics is intrinsically linked to the development of logic.

L'étude des mathématiques est intrinsèquement liée au développement de la logique.

Adverb 'intrinsically'.

Many argue that mathematics is a discovery rather than an invention.

Beaucoup soutiennent que les mathématiques sont une découverte plutôt qu'une invention.

Conjunction 'rather than'.

The mathematics of chaos theory describes unpredictable systems.

La mathématique de la théorie du chaos décrit des systèmes imprévisibles.

Plural 'systems'.

The ontological status of mathematics remains a subject of intense debate.

Le statut ontologique des mathématiques reste un sujet de débat intense.

High-level academic vocabulary 'ontological status'.

Gödel's incompleteness theorems fundamentally altered our perception of mathematics.

Les théorèmes d'incomplétude de Gödel ont fondamentalement modifié notre perception des mathématiques.

Possessive 'Gödel's'.

The sheer elegance of the mathematics was breathtaking to the researchers.

L'élégance pure de la mathématique était à couper le souffle pour les chercheurs.

Adjective 'sheer'.

Mathematics transcends cultural boundaries, serving as a lingua franca for science.

Les mathématiques transcendent les frontières culturelles, servant de lingua franca pour la science.

Present participle phrase 'serving as'.

One must appreciate the abstract mathematics underlying string theory.

Il faut apprécier les mathématiques abstraites sous-jacentes à la théorie des cordes.

Modal 'must'.

The recursive nature of mathematics allows for the construction of infinite structures.

La nature récursive des mathématiques permet la construction de structures infinies.

Adjective 'recursive'.

He delved into the mathematics of non-Euclidean geometry.

Il s'est plongé dans les mathématiques de la géométrie non euclidienne.

Phrasal verb 'delve into'.

The pervasive influence of mathematics is evident in every facet of modern life.

L'influence omniprésente des mathématiques est évidente dans chaque facette de la vie moderne.

Adjective 'pervasive'.

近义词

math maths arithmetic calculation numeracy figures

反义词

guesswork intuition

常见搭配

Applied mathematics

Pure mathematics

Advanced mathematics

Discrete mathematics

Mathematics department

Study mathematics

Teach mathematics

Basic mathematics

Higher mathematics

Mathematics teacher

常用短语

Do the math

The mathematics of the situation

A degree in mathematics

The laws of mathematics

Mathematical certainty

According to the mathematics

Foundation in mathematics

Complex mathematics

Simple mathematics

Higher-level mathematics

容易混淆的词

mathematics vs Arithmetic (Arithmetic is a subset of mathematics)

mathematics vs Numerology (Numerology is a belief system, not a science)

mathematics vs Statistics (Statistics is a specific branch of mathematics)

习语与表达

容易混淆

mathematics vs

句型

如何使用

singular usage

Always singular in standard English.

regional variations

Math (US/Canada), Maths (UK/Australia/NZ).

abbreviation formality

Abbreviations are for informal or semi-formal use; full word for formal.

常见错误

Using 'are' instead of 'is' (Mathematics are hard).
Spelling it as 'mathmatics' (forgetting the 'e').
Using 'math' in a formal British academic context.
Confusing 'mathematics' with 'arithmetic' when talking about advanced topics.
Capitalizing 'mathematics' in the middle of a sentence (unless it's part of a specific department title).

小贴士

Singular Verb

Always use a singular verb with mathematics. 'Mathematics is...' is correct. 'Mathematics are...' is incorrect.

Regional Choice

Choose 'math' for American audiences and 'maths' for British audiences to sound more natural.

Beyond Numbers

Remember that mathematics includes shapes (geometry) and logic, not just numbers and counting.

Formal Writing

In academic papers or professional resumes, always write out the full word 'mathematics' instead of using abbreviations.

The 'th' Sound

Make sure to pronounce the 'th' clearly. It's a soft 'th' like in 'think'.

Logical Flow

When studying mathematics, focus on the logic behind the steps, not just memorizing the formulas.

STEM Careers

Mathematics is the 'M' in STEM. A strong background in it is essential for high-paying tech and science jobs.

Ancient Roots

The word comes from Greek. Knowing this helps you remember it's a deep, historical field of knowledge.

Idiom Usage

Use 'do the math' when you want someone to think about the obvious logical conclusion of a situation.

Adjective vs Noun

Use 'mathematical' to describe things (a mathematical error) and 'mathematics' for the subject itself.

记住它

记忆技巧

MATH: Mental Abuse To Humans (just a joke!), or focus on the 'THEMA' in the middle - it's a 'THEME' of numbers.

词源

Greek

文化背景

Americans say 'math', while the British say 'maths'.

There is a significant global effort to encourage more women to enter mathematical fields.

A degree in mathematics is highly respected globally for its rigor.

在生活中练习

真实语境

对话开场白

"Did you enjoy mathematics when you were in school?"

"Do you think mathematics is a discovery or an invention?"

"How often do you use mathematics in your daily life?"

"What is the most difficult mathematics problem you've ever solved?"

"Why do you think some people are afraid of mathematics?"

日记主题

Describe your relationship with mathematics throughout your life.

How would the world be different if mathematics didn't exist?

Write about a time when mathematics helped you solve a real-world problem.

Do you believe everyone can be good at mathematics with enough practice?

Reflect on the beauty of a mathematical pattern you've seen in nature.

常见问题

10 个问题

Mathematics is a singular noun. Even though it ends in 's', it refers to a single field of study. You should say 'Mathematics is my favorite subject.'

There is no difference in meaning. 'Math' is used in American English, and 'maths' is used in British English. Both are short for mathematics.

No, arithmetic is a branch of mathematics that deals with basic numbers and operations like addition and subtraction. Mathematics is the whole field.

It is called a universal language because mathematical principles are the same everywhere in the universe, regardless of culture or spoken language.

It is an idiom that means to look at the facts or figures of a situation to understand the logical result or truth.

No, mathematics is uncountable. You can say 'a mathematics course' or 'a branch of mathematics', but not 'a mathematics'.

Pure mathematics is the study of mathematical concepts for their own sake, without necessarily looking for a practical application.

Applied mathematics is the use of mathematical methods and reasoning to solve practical problems in science, engineering, and business.

Yes, it is often called the 'queen of sciences' because it provides the logical and numerical tools that all other sciences rely on.

A person who studies or specializes in mathematics is called a 'mathematician'.