Words / B2

uh-RITHM-uh-tik/əˈrɪθmətɪk/

Arithmetic is the branch of maths that deals with numbers and the four operations (usually uncountable): mental arithmetic; the arithmetic of the budget. Maths is broader; calculation is a close twin. Show the arithmetic in the working, not a calculator screenshot alone. Mix-up: arithmetic vs arthritic; logarithm. Do not write arithmetic for a geometry proof with no number work.

Meaning

The branch of maths that deals with numbers and the four operations (usually uncountable).

Examples

• “Show the arithmetic in the working, not a calculator screenshot alone.”
• “The arithmetic of the budget still needs the £ totals, which is the number-work sense.”

Good to know

mental arithmetic; the arithmetic of; arithmetical. Broader: maths. Close: calculation / sums. Trap: arthritic. Maths, science, and accounts. Number work: add, subtract, multiply, divide — show it.

Near in meaning

calculation, maths, sums

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