Mathematic vs. Mathematical — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Urooj Arif — Updated on March 10, 2024
Mathematic focuses on abstract science of number, quantity, & space, often used as adjective in narrower, theoretical contexts, whereas mathematical is broader term that relates to mathematics in general, including its application in real-world.
Difference Between Mathematic and Mathematical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Mathematic is an older term that is not commonly used in contemporary English but when it is, it often refers to the abstract science and principles of numbers, quantity, and space, typically in a theoretical or philosophical context. It may be seen in historical or specific academic discussions emphasizing the foundational aspects of the field. Mathematical, on the other hand, is the more commonly used adjective that applies to anything related to the discipline of mathematics, encompassing both theoretical studies and practical applications. This term is widely used in educational, professional, and everyday contexts to describe processes, theories, problems, and applications involving mathematics.
While "mathematic" highlights the pure, abstract nature of mathematics, focusing on the theoretical underpinnings of the science, "mathematical" encompasses a broader spectrum, including applied mathematics. This distinction underlines the difference in usage: "mathematic" for theoretical discussions and "mathematical" for a wide range of topics and applications within the field. The latter term is more versatile, relating to various branches of mathematics, including algebra, calculus, geometry, and their use in fields like engineering, physics, and economics.
The use of "mathematic" has become rare in modern discourse, with "mathematical" being the preferred term to describe attributes or concepts pertaining to mathematics. This shift reflects the evolving nature of language and the preference for terms that broadly encompass both the abstract and applied aspects of disciplines. The term "mathematical" thus serves as a comprehensive adjective that can qualify subjects, problems, models, and reasoning related to the field of mathematics.
In academic and professional settings, "mathematical" is commonly used to describe skills, methods, models, and reasoning. It is applicable in a wide range of contexts, from mathematical logic and theoretical computer science to practical problem-solving in engineering and data analysis. "Mathematic" might be reserved for expressions emphasizing the pure essence of mathematical thought or in historical references to the study of mathematics.
Understanding the nuances between "mathematic" and "mathematical" is essential for correct usage in academic, professional, and everyday contexts. While "mathematic" might appeal to those discussing the theoretical aspects or history of mathematics, "mathematical" is the go-to adjective for a wide array of applications and discussions related to the field, reflecting the comprehensive nature of mathematics as both an abstract science and a practical tool.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Relates to the abstract science of numbers, quantity, and space, often used in theoretical contexts.
Pertains to anything related to the discipline of mathematics, including theoretical and applied aspects.
Usage
Narrower, more specific to theoretical discussions.
Broad, encompassing both theoretical studies and practical applications.
Contemporary Use
Rare, mostly in historical or specific academic contexts.
Commonly used in educational, professional, and everyday contexts.
Focus
Emphasizes the pure, abstract nature of mathematics.
Covers a wide range of topics, including applied mathematics.
Application
Limited to discussions emphasizing foundational aspects of mathematics.
Versatile, relating to various branches of mathematics and their applications.
Compare with Definitions
Mathematic
Pertaining to the abstract principles of number, quantity, and space.
His interest in the mathematic foundations of quantum theory led him to pursue a Ph.D.
Mathematical
Relating to mathematics, including its theories, methods, and applications.
Mathematical models are crucial in predicting weather patterns.
Mathematic
Used in contexts that emphasize the essence of mathematical thought.
The mathematic complexity of fractals fascinates both mathematicians and artists.
Mathematical
Broad, including problem-solving in real-world scenarios.
She applied mathematical techniques to solve complex financial problems.
Mathematic
Often found in academic and historical texts.
Ancient texts reveal a deep understanding of mathematic principles.
Mathematical
Pertains to all areas of mathematics and its applications.
The mathematical accuracy of the simulation was impressive.
Mathematic
Primarily on the theoretical aspects of mathematics.
The conference on the mathematic underpinnings of algebra attracted scholars worldwide.
Mathematical
Widely used across various fields, including education and science.
Developing strong mathematical skills is essential for engineers.
Mathematic
More restricted to theoretical or philosophical discussions.
Her lecture explored the mathematic beauty behind Euler's equations.
Mathematical
Encompasses both the abstract and applied aspects of mathematics.
Mathematical logic forms the basis of computer programming.
Mathematic
Of or relating to mathematics.
Mathematical
Of or relating to mathematics.
Mathematic
Precise; exact.
Mathematical
Precise; exact.
Mathematic
Absolute; certain.
Mathematical
Absolute; certain.
Mathematic
Possible according to mathematics but highly improbable
The team has only a mathematical chance to win the championship.
Mathematical
Possible according to mathematics but highly improbable
The team has only a mathematical chance to win the championship.
Mathematic
(archaic) mathematical
Mathematical
Of, or relating to mathematics
A mathematical problem
Mathematic
See Mathematical.
Mathematical
(figuratively) Extremely precise and accurate, as though having the exactness of a mathematical equation.
Mathematical
Possible but highly improbable
The team has a mathematical chance of being promoted, but they need to win the next seven matches.
Mathematical
Of or pertaining to mathematics; according to mathematics; hence, theoretically precise; accurate; as, mathematical geography; mathematical instruments; mathematical exactness.
Mathematical
Of or pertaining to or of the nature of mathematics;
A mathematical textbook
Slide rules and other mathematical instruments
A mathematical solution to a problem
Mathematical proof
Mathematical
Relating to or having ability to think in or work with numbers;
Tests for rating numerical aptitude
A mathematical whiz
Mathematical
Beyond question;
A mathematical certainty
Mathematical
Statistically possible though highly improbable;
Have a mathematical chance of making the playoffs
Mathematical
Characterized by the exactness or precision of mathematics;
Mathematical precision
Common Curiosities
What does "mathematic" refer to?
Refers to the abstract principles of mathematics, often in theoretical contexts.
Can something be both mathematic and mathematical?
Yes, particularly in contexts where both the theoretical essence and practical applications of mathematics are emphasized.
Is "mathematic" obsolete?
Not entirely, but its use is limited and often found in specific academic or historical contexts.
How do educators differentiate between "mathematic" and "mathematical"?
Educators mostly use "mathematical" to refer to concepts, skills, and applications taught in mathematics education.
How is "mathematical" used differently from "mathematic"?
"Mathematical" is more broadly used to describe anything related to the field of mathematics, including both theoretical and practical aspects.
Can "mathematic" be used in modern mathematical discussions?
While rare, it might appear in discussions emphasizing the theoretical or foundational aspects of mathematics.
Why is "mathematical" preferred in contemporary language?
It's preferred for its broader applicability across various contexts, including education, science, and practical problem-solving.
Are mathematical theories and mathematic principles the same?
They overlap in content but differ in focus; "mathematic principles" might emphasize foundational theories, while "mathematical theories" can include both foundational and applied theories.
Is "mathematical" applicable in fields outside of mathematics?
Yes, it's used in fields like physics, engineering, economics, and more, wherever mathematical concepts are applied.
How does the use of "mathematic" versus "mathematical" affect the understanding of a concept?
The choice between them can highlight whether the focus is on the theoretical foundations ("mathematic") or on a broader range of applications and theories ("mathematical").
Do "mathematic" and "mathematical" focus on the same aspects of mathematics?
"Mathematic" focuses more on the theoretical side, while "mathematical" encompasses both theory and application.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
