How to say "mathematics" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

数学すうがくJLPT N4approx.Common
nounCovers mathematics as the school subject and academic field of study. This is the word you want in everyday contexts — lessons, exams, university study — and it carries no special nuance.
数学すうがくは彼女かのじょの弱点じゃくてんです。↗
Mathematics is her weak point.
数理すうりCommon
nounIts chief sense is 'mathematical principle' — the principles and logic of mathematics rather than the subject itself. For plain 'mathematics', meaning the school subject or the discipline, this is seldom the word you want.

For mathematics as a subject or field of study, use 数学; 数理 is really about mathematical principles, and as a way of saying plain 'mathematics' it is seldom the word you want.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents

数学すうがくmathematics
数理すうりmathematical principle

JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

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