Mathematics Vocabulary Quiz
12 multiple-choice questions on key maths terms: fractions, equations, perimeter, denominator and angles. B1–B2 level.
This quiz focuses on how the target vocabulary for Mathematics is actually used in context at B1–B2 level, rather than testing bare definitions. Correct answers you will need to identify include terms such as denominator, numerator, perimeter, area and equation, each embedded in a full example sentence so you have to judge meaning from context, not just recognise an isolated word.
Working through all 12 questions and checking the explanations in the FAQ below is a quick way to spot any terms you are still unsure of. Revisiting the quiz again after a day or two, rather than only once, is one of the most reliable ways to move new vocabulary from passive recognition into words you can use confidently yourself in speaking and writing.
Keep building your mathematics vocabulary.
Mathematics Vocabulary — FAQ
What is the difference between the numerator and the denominator?
In a fraction, the numerator is the number on top, showing how many parts you have. The denominator is the number on the bottom, showing how many equal parts the whole is divided into. For example, in 3/4 the numerator is 3 and the denominator is 4.
What is the difference between area and perimeter?
Perimeter is the total distance around the outside edge of a two-dimensional shape, measured in units of length. Area is the amount of surface a shape covers, measured in square units. A shape can have a large perimeter but a small area, or vice versa.
What is an equation?
An equation is a mathematical statement that says two expressions are equal, joined by an equals sign (=). For example, 2 + 3 = 5 and x + 4 = 9 are equations. Solving an equation means finding the value or values that make it true.
What is the difference between a product and a quotient?
A product is the result of multiplying numbers together, while a quotient is the result of dividing one number by another. For example, the product of 4 and 5 is 20, and the quotient of 20 divided by 5 is 4.
What is the difference between radius and diameter?
The radius of a circle is the distance from its centre to any point on its edge. The diameter is the distance straight across the circle through the centre, which is exactly twice the radius. So the diameter equals two times the radius.
What are acute, right and obtuse angles?
An acute angle measures less than 90 degrees, a right angle measures exactly 90 degrees, and an obtuse angle measures more than 90 but less than 180 degrees. A straight angle measures exactly 180 degrees.
What is a factor?
A factor is a whole number that divides exactly into another number with no remainder. For example, the factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 12. Factors are useful for simplifying fractions and finding common values between numbers.
What is a multiple?
A multiple of a number is the result of multiplying that number by a whole number. For example, the multiples of 4 are 4, 8, 12, 16 and so on. The lowest common multiple is the smallest number that is a multiple of two or more numbers.
What is the hypotenuse?
The hypotenuse is the longest side of a right-angled triangle and is always the side opposite the right angle. The Pythagorean theorem states that the square of the hypotenuse equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides.
What is the difference between a sum and a difference?
A sum is the result of adding numbers together, while a difference is the result of subtracting one number from another. For example, the sum of 7 and 3 is 10, and the difference between 7 and 3 is 4.