WordGarden.iomathematically
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˌæθɪmˈætɪkli/
US
- /ˌmæθəˈmætɪkəli/
Meanings
Adverb
in a way that uses or follows mathematics; in numerical terms
Beyond the definition
When something is done "mathematically," it is done using math, careful logic, or exact calculation. It often shows that an idea is not just a guess but something that can be worked out and shown clearly. You might say a plan is "mathematically possible," meaning the numbers show it can work. You might also say two amounts are "mathematically equal," even if they look different at first. The word often adds a sense of order, proof, and precision.
The word "mathematically" describes doing, explaining, or judging something by using math or mathematical reasoning. It often suggests exact thinking, clear logic, and results that can be shown through numbers, formulas, or step-by-step proof.
You will often hear it in situations where accuracy really matters. For example, "The bridge was mathematically designed to withstand strong winds" means engineers used exact calculations in the design. In another case, "Mathematically speaking, the odds of winning the lottery are very low" shows that the conclusion comes from numbers, not from hope or guesswork.
The word is not limited to advanced topics. Sometimes it is used for very simple ideas. If someone says, "Mathematically, if you spend more than you earn, you will go into debt," they mean the result follows from basic arithmetic. It can also be used when comparing values, patterns, chances, sizes, or shapes, especially when the speaker wants to stress that the statement is exact and can be proved.
In everyday use, "mathematically" often adds a formal tone. It tells the listener that the statement is based on calculation or strict logic. Whether it describes a design, a comparison, a probability, or a simple rule about numbers, "mathematically" points to something exact rather than something merely felt or assumed.
Examples
- 1
Accuracy
Check your work again; the final number is not mathematically correct.
- 2
Equivalent methods
The two methods are mathematically equivalent, so they should give the same result.
- 3
Chance of winning
Mathematically, we still have a chance of winning, but it is very small.
- 4
Engineering model
The engineers mathematically modeled the airflow before building the prototype.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Cost comparison
Mathematically speaking, the cheaper plan is better only if you use it for more than a year.
- Phrasemathematically speaking
looking only at the numbers
- 6
Natural ability
He is mathematically gifted, but he finds writing essays difficult.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
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Used with (collocations)
- mathematically possible
- mathematically equivalent
- mathematically precise
- prove mathematically
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- mathematicallyadverb