speaking mathematically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "speaking mathematically" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts, ideas, or arguments in a mathematical context or when expressing something in mathematical terms. Example: "Speaking mathematically, the solution to the equation can be expressed as x = 5."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The most times a team could possibly win three games in a row in a standard MLB season – speaking mathematically, not practically – is 54.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Practically speaking, not mathematically speaking, there are four teams, the Texas Rangers, Houston Astros, Los Angeles Angels and Minnesota Twins, trying to squeeze into the two remaining playoff spots: this is the week we finally figure out who wins the AL West and who becomes the second AL wild card team... unless of course, it stretches into next week.

The Guardian - Sport

Mathematically speaking, there were thirty-two possible combinations.

The New Yorker

MATHEMATICALLY speaking, Columbus Park in Lower Manhattan is not a perfect square.

The New York Times

Mathematically speaking, the designers considered their course all but impossible.

The New York Times - Sports

In other words, mathematically speaking, nothing has changed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mathematically speaking, as the saying goes, no one wins the lottery.

The New Yorker

What seems like a bug may be, mathematically speaking, a feature.

The New Yorker

Mathematically speaking, "Napoleon Dynamite" is a very significant problem for the Netflix Prize.

The New York Times - Magazine

Of course, mathematically speaking, this number does exist - although it depends largely on which survey you look at.

Independent

Probably, with seven billion souls on the planet, mathematically speaking, hundreds of people right now are getting away with murder.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "speaking mathematically" with a contrasting phrase like "practically speaking" to highlight the difference between theoretical and real-world considerations.

Common error

Avoid using "speaking mathematically" in situations where a mathematical explanation is not relevant or necessary. Ensure the context genuinely benefits from a mathematical perspective, otherwise, it can sound pretentious or out of place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speaking mathematically" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a sentence or clause to indicate that the statement is being made from a mathematical viewpoint. It introduces a mathematically precise or formal perspective. As Ludwig AI states, it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "speaking mathematically" serves as a grammatically sound and relatively frequent adverbial phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness in written English. It is used to introduce a mathematical perspective. While predominantly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, it's crucial to ensure its appropriate application in situations where a mathematical viewpoint is genuinely relevant. Remember to consider alternatives like "in mathematical terms" for nuanced expressions. Use it to add precision and rigor to your explanations, but avoid overuse in non-mathematical contexts to maintain clarity and avoid sounding pretentious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in mathematical terms

Focuses on the specific language and notation of mathematics.

from a mathematical perspective

Emphasizes the viewpoint or approach of mathematics.

mathematically speaking

Reverses the order of words but carries the same meaning.

using mathematical reasoning

Highlights the process of using logic and deduction.

in the language of mathematics

Emphasizes the use of a specific symbolic and formal language.

quantitatively

Focuses on numerical aspects and measurable data.

from a quantitative standpoint

Stresses the numerical assessment of a situation.

in terms of mathematical principles

Highlights the use of fundamental rules and axioms.

according to mathematical models

Emphasizes the use of simulations and representations.

by mathematical calculation

Highlights the process of performing a mathematical operation.

FAQs

How can I use "speaking mathematically" in a sentence?

You can use "speaking mathematically" to introduce a more formal or precise explanation of a concept. For example, "Speaking mathematically, the probability of this event is quite low."

What can I say instead of "speaking mathematically"?

You can use alternatives like "in mathematical terms", "from a mathematical perspective", or "mathematically speaking" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "speaking mathematically"?

It's appropriate to use "speaking mathematically" when you want to emphasize a precise, quantitative, or formal explanation. This is especially useful when contrasting with a more intuitive or practical viewpoint.

Is "speaking mathematically" formal or informal?

The phrase "speaking mathematically" is generally considered neutral to formal. It depends on the surrounding context. In casual conversation, it might seem slightly formal, but in academic or technical discussions, it's perfectly appropriate.