Why is it called Math Instead of Mathematics?
Have you ever pondered why the term used for the subject is differently abbreviated in American English—Math—as opposed to the British—Maths? This intriguing linguistic quirk has a rich history rooted in cultural and grammatical preferences.
Historical Context and Geographical Influences
The terms Math and Maths have their roots in different ways of abbreviation that are still evident today. Interestingly, the naming convention has its origins in the abbreviation of the word "company," which was once abbreviated as "coy," but is now typically "co." The divergence between these terms is more pronounced in the Atlantic Ocean, a geographical factor that divides the usage norms between Americans and Britons.
Given the overwhelming number of Americans, it's safe to say that the American preference for using "Math" is more popular. However, the debate is not just about numbers; it's about linguistic choices and cultural norms. Whether you choose "Math" or "Maths," it's important to understand the reasoning behind the terms.
Miscellaneous Linguistic Stylings
One might think that "Math" makes no sense because it appears to be singular while mathematics is plural. However, this argument does not hold up to grammatical scrutiny. In fact, the singular use of "Math" is a common practice in American English, where it is an accepted abbreviation that has historical precedent. Notably, "Math" stands as a legacy of "mathematics," retaining the convenience of a singular term despite the subject's plural nature. This is because there is no strict grammatical rule that dictates all abbreviations must follow the full form's number.
However, etymologically speaking, the original Greek term for mathematics, μαθηματικ (mathematika), is already in the plural form. This term literally means "the learned things," hence suggesting that the academic discipline itself is inherently plural. By retaining the plural form in "Maths," the British maintain a more grammatically correct reflection of the original term's plural nature. In contrast, the French use "mathématique" only as an adjective, such as "une opération mathématique" (a mathematical operation), while "les mathématiques" (the mathematics) is in the plural form.
Linguistic Evolution and Student Influence
The usage of "Math" and "Maths" can also be traced back to practical factors. Non-totalizing student usage often contributes to the linguistic evolution of terms. American students might have found "Math" more convenient or simply preferred the quicker shorthand. Consequently, the term "Math" gained popularity in educational settings, reinforcing its usage in both spoken and written contexts.
Another aspect is the inconsistency in the British use of "Maths." While "Maths" is consistent with the name, it also leads to confusion in print. For formal writing, it is preferred to use the full term "Mathematics" to avoid ambiguity and maintain a more authoritative tone. The same principle applies to other subjects where the full term is more appropriate, such as "science" (which technically includes multiple disciplines like biology, chemistry, and physics).
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Understanding the terminology within mathematics and its popular abbreviations provides insight into the complex interplay of linguistic, cultural, and practical factors. Whether you prefer "Math" or "Maths," the key is to be consistent in your usage to avoid misunderstandings and to appreciate the historical and cultural significance behind these terms.