mathematisch
mathematical
Relating to the science of mathematics, based on it, or working with its methods.
EXAMPLE
Er löste die Aufgabe mit einer komplexen mathematischen Formel.
He solved the problem with a complex mathematical formula.
mathematisch
mathematical
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Meanings
mathematisch
mathematical
In a figurative sense: very exact, logical, and precise, almost like in mathematics.
EXAMPLE
Mit mathematischer Genauigkeit platzierte sie die Bausteine aufeinander.
With mathematical accuracy, she placed the building blocks on top of one another.
Usage tips
Word structure
The adjective 'mathematisch' (mathematical) is derived directly from the noun 'die Mathematik' (mathematics). The ending '-isch' is a typical ending used to form adjectives from nouns.
EXAMPLE
Für diesen Studiengang sind gute mathematische Kenntnisse erforderlich.
Good mathematical knowledge is required for this degree program.
Typical collocations
In its literal meaning, 'mathematisch' (mathematical) is often combined with terms from science. Typical examples are 'eine mathematische Formel' (a mathematical formula), 'ein mathematisches Problem' (a mathematical problem), or 'ein mathematischer Beweis' (a mathematical proof).
EXAMPLE
Der Professor erklärte uns das mathematische Modell hinter seiner Theorie.
The professor explained the mathematical model behind his theory to us.
Context clue
You can tell whether the literal or figurative meaning is intended from the noun. If it refers to an abstract concept like 'Genauigkeit' (accuracy) or 'Präzision' (precision), the figurative meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Der Uhrmacher arbeitet mit mathematischer Präzision.
The watchmaker works with mathematical precision.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'mathematisch' (mathematical) describes extreme exactness. Common combinations are 'mathematische Genauigkeit' (mathematical accuracy), 'mathematische Präzision' (mathematical precision), or 'mathematische Logik' (mathematical logic).
EXAMPLE
Seine Argumentation folgte einer klaren, fast mathematischen Logik.
His argument followed a clear, almost mathematical logic.
Compare with
mathematisch vs rechnerisch
mathematical / on paper
Mathematisch generally refers to mathematics or its methods. Rechnerisch, by contrast, emphasizes that a specific result was determined by calculation. Mathematisch is therefore appropriate for a formula or method, while rechnerisch is used for the numerical value calculated from it.
mathematisch
Mathematisch lässt sich die Fläche mit dieser Formel bestimmen.
Mathematically, the area can be determined using this formula.
rechnerisch
Rechnerisch ergibt sich für die Fläche ein Wert von 24 Quadratmetern.
The calculation gives an area of 24 square meters.
In real life
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