English in mathematics

As mathematics has been developed to solve problems faced by our cultures, many words that are being used in mathematics have been borrowed from our spoken languages.

- by R N A de Silva

Some words have been specifically invented only for mathematical purposes. The mixing of these words can create confusion amongst students. As the vocabulary we use in the classroom has wide implications for the learning of students, it is worthwhile to reflect on the uncertainty that it can arise and how to deal with them effectively.

In mathematics, some English terms can cause confusion because the common usage of the word differs from the mathematical usage of the word. This can lead to misinterpretation and thereby difficulty in conceptual understanding. Let us consider some examples.

The common understanding of the word in the English language is marked as E, and the mathematical meaning is marked as M.

Acute

(E) Sharp or severe in effect

(M) Smaller than a right angle

Angle:

(E) A viewpoint

(M) The difference of the directions between two straight lines

Even

(E) flat or smooth

(M) Exactly divisible by 2

Factor

(E) An element contributing to a result or situation

(M) A divisor

Function

(E) The purpose for which something is designed

(M) A relation between two sets with a condition on the domain

Power

(E) Capability of doing or accomplishing something

(M) Exponent of an expression

Rational

(E) Agreeable to reason

(M) Expressible as a ratio of two integers

Root

(E) The underground part of a plant or a source of something

(M) A value that satisfies a given equation

Similar

(E) Having a likeness or resemblance

(M) Having the same shape but not necessarily the same size

Table

(E) Furniture with a flat top