je déteste les maths
The English phrase "I hate math" is translated into French as je déteste les maths.
This phrase is used to express a strong dislike for the subject of mathematics. While English speakers often say "I hate math" without an article, in French you must include the definite article les before the subject when expressing a general dislike.
Which one should you use?
You can also use j'ai horreur des maths to convey a similarly strong, visceral dislike. To add emphasis in an informal way, you can say je déteste vraiment les maths to mean "I really hate math" or je ne supporte pas les maths to mean "I can't stand math".
How does it change in a sentence?
The colloquial abbreviation les maths is used in the same way as the full formal term les mathématiques.
Did you know?
- If you say je n'ai pas la bosse des maths, you are claiming you lack an innate talent for the subject. The term bosse refers to a 'bump' on the head, implying that mathematical ability is a physical trait one is born with.
- While je déteste les maths is a common complaint, French students often use the phrase j'ai un blocage to describe the specific mental paralysis or 'wall' they hit when trying to solve a math problem.
- Using the full term les mathématiques in a casual setting can be interpreted as an ironic joke, making the speaker sound like an overly formal professor.
Examples in context
- Je déteste les maths.I hate math.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase je déteste les maths.Tatoeba #3556383 by maydoo, translation #3748905 by csabus
- Je ne supporte pas les maths, c'est vraiment pas mon truc !I can't stand math, it's really not my thing!
- Je déteste les maths, c'est trop difficile.I hate math, it is too difficult.
- Dis-lui que je déteste les maths.Tell him that I hate math.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing their homework after school.
- LucasTu as fini tes devoirs de géométrie ?Did you finish your geometry homework?
- ManonNon, je déteste les maths.No, I hate math.
- LucasMoi aussi, c'est vraiment pénible.Me too, it is really a pain.
- ManonOn peut aller réviser à la bibliothèque ?Can we go study at the library?
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
