Gaining a good command of vocabulary is essential for effective communication, and this includes knowing various ways to express mathematical operations. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “multiply” in English, providing both formal and informal options. Remember, language usage can vary based on geographical regions, but we will focus on commonly used terms. So, let’s delve into the fascinating world of multiplication and enrich your vocabulary!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for Multiply
When it comes to formal contexts, particularly academic or professional, precise terminology is often preferred. Here are some formal ways to indicate the operation of multiplication:
1. Multiply
The word “multiply” is the most common and formal term to convey the mathematical operation. For example:
Example: To find the area of a rectangle, you multiply its length by its width.
2. Times
The word “times” is another formal expression used to indicate multiplication. It is often employed when emphasizing the number of occurrences or repetitions:
Example: The cost of a single item times the quantity will give you the total price.
3. Multiplied by
While slightly more lengthy, “multiplied by” is a formal and explicit way to communicate the operation:
Example: The volume of the cylinder is calculated by multiplying the area of the base by its height.
Informal Expressions for Multiply
When engaging in casual conversations or everyday scenarios, people tend to use more colloquial language. Here are some informal expressions widely used for multiplication:
1. Times
Just like in formal contexts, “times” is also commonly used informally:
Example: If you eat three slices of pizza, you’ll feel full four times as quickly.
2. Multiply
Despite being formal, “multiply” is still frequently employed in informal contexts:
Example: You need to multiply the recipe’s ingredients by two if you want to prepare a larger batch.
3. Times by
An even more colloquial variant of “times” is to add the word “by” after it:
Example: If you want to go twice as fast, you need to pedal two times by the usual rate.
Tips
For a better understanding of multiplication expressions in English, consider the following tips:
1. Use “times” for indicating quantity
When discussing the repetition or frequency of an action, using “times” clarifies the quantity involved. For instance:
- I went to the gym five times this week.
- Alice sneezed ten times in a row.
2. “Multiply” emphasizes the operation itself
If you want to highlight the mathematical operation of multiplication, use “multiply” in your sentence:
- Remember to multiply the numerator by the denominator when dealing with fractions.
- Can you multiply this number by the conversion factor to get the result?
3. Be mindful of regional variations
Language usage can vary across regions, so it’s essential to adapt your vocabulary accordingly. However, the terms provided in this guide are widely used and understood in English-speaking communities.
By using a variety of expressions for multiplication, you can confidently communicate in both formal and informal settings, enriching your English language skills. Remember to practice using these terms in context to further reinforce your understanding. Happy multiplying!
