matemáticas
/mateˈmatikas/feminine, plural
Mathematics in Spanish is translated as matemáticas. Wiktionary also lists matemática.
Meaning: field of study (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| matemáticas | /mateˈmatikas/ | feminine, plural |
| matemática | /mateˈmatika/ | feminine |
The term refers to the field of study of mathematics.
Which one should you use?
The plural form matemáticas is the most common way to refer to the discipline. While the singular matemática can also be used to refer to the field of study as a single discipline, the plural is more standard.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the definite article las is often used before the word to refer to the subject. In Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, the singular form matemática is the preferred term.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using the plural form las matemáticas, you must use a plural verb, such as son. If you use the singular form la matemática, the verb will be singular.
How do you pronounce it?
/mateˈmatikas/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, students often use the shorthand mate to refer to the subject, which is a homonym for a popular caffeine-rich drink in South America.
- The etymological root of matemática implies someone who is 'fond of learning', framing the discipline as an attitude rather than just a set of numbers.
- In some Spanish-speaking contexts, the word matemática can be used as an adjective to describe a precise or calculated process, similar to the English word 'mathematical'.
Examples in context
- No soy bueno en matemáticas.I am not good at mathematics.This sentence shows how to express a lack of proficiency in matemáticas.Tatoeba #1536343 by marcelostockle, translation #1019899 by CM
- Matemáticas es un buen ramo.Mathematics is a good subject.This sentence uses matemáticas to describe the subject as a field of study.Tatoeba #2716905 by marcelostockle, translation #480075 by Swift
- Las matemáticas son difíciles.Mathematics is difficult.This sentence demonstrates that the plural form matemáticas requires a plural verb.Tatoeba #9432138 by ignacio, translation #11559480 by carlosalberto
- Asistiré a una conferencia de matemáticas la próxima semana.I will attend a mathematics conference next week.
- Obtuve un título en ciencias matemáticas el año pasado.I obtained a degree in mathematical sciences last year.
- Estoy estudiando matemáticas en la universidad.I am studying mathematics at the university.
- La matemática es una disciplina esencial en nuestra educación.Mathematics is an essential discipline in our education.
- No entiendo las matemáticas. Necesito ayuda.I don't understand math. I need help.
- 100 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Alejandro and Lucía are talking about their university subjects.
- Alejandro¿Qué carrera estudias, Lucía?What major are you studying, Lucía?
- LucíaEstudio matemáticas en la facultad.I study mathematics at the faculty.
- Alejandro¡Qué increíble! Yo prefiero la historia.How incredible! I prefer history.
- LucíaCada uno tiene sus propios intereses.Each one has their own interests.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mathematics” translations and entries matemáticas, matemática, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries matemática, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
