matematyka
/ma.tɛˈma.tɘ.ka/
The English word "math" is translated into Polish as matematyka.
Meaning: short form of mathematics (noun)
Which one should you use?
matematyka is the standard, full form of the word, whereas matma is a shortened, colloquial version.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 5 syllables, with the stress on the third syllable: /ma.tɛˈma.tɘ.ka/.
Did you know?
- The Greek origin of the word, mathēma, actually refers to 'that which is learned' or 'knowledge' itself.
- In Polish, you do not say you are 'doing' math, but rather that you 'have' matematyka ( mam matematykę ) when referring to your class schedule.
Examples in context
- W swojej pracy badawczej zajmuję się matematyką stosowaną.In my research work, I focus on applied mathematics.
- Pan/Pani jest nauczycielem matematyki?Are you a math teacher, sir/ma'am?
- Muszę się przygotować do matmy na jutrzejszy egzamin.I need to prepare for math for tomorrow's exam.
- Matematyka jest bardzo trudna.Math is very difficult.
Example conversation
Two students are talking about their school schedule.
- MałgorzataTomasz, czy masz już książki na matematykę?Tomasz, do you have the math books yet?
- TomaszTak, odebrałem je wczoraj.Yes, I picked them up yesterday.
- MałgorzataSuper, bo matematyka zaczyna się za pięć minut.Great, because math starts in five minutes.
- TomaszChodźmy szybko do klasy.Let's go to the classroom quickly.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry matematyka, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries matematyka, CC BY-SA 4.0.
