multiplication - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
multiplication Word Meanings
- the process of adding a number to itself a certain number of times
- mathematical operation of scaling one number by another
- increase significantly or rapidly
multiplication Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
multiplication Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌmʌltɪplɪˈkeɪʃən/
US
/ˌmʌltɪplɪˈkeɪʃən/
multiplication Word Etymology
Root: multi- (many) + plicare (to fold). Origin: Latin multiplicatio → Old French multiplication → English. Memory image: Imagine folding a sheet of paper many times; every fold multiplies its thickness and size, illustrating how multiplication increases quantities.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Multiplication is a basic arithmetic operation that combines equal groups of objects to find a total. It can be understood as repeated addition: five groups of three make fifteen, so 5 × 3 = 15. It also serves as a way to scale a number, such as doubling a recipe or quadrupling a budget. In real life you use multiplication when counting items, computing costs, or estimating quantities. The operation has useful properties you can rely on, like commutativity (a × b = b × a) and associativity (a × (b × c) = (a × b) × c). Many beginners confuse multiplication with addition or forget to apply parentheses correctly in mixed expressions.
Usage Reminders
- Use multiplication for groups or repeated addition
- Think of scaling a quantity, not just counting it
- Remember the commutative law: a × b = b × a
- Use parentheses to show the intended order in mixed expressions
- Practice with real-world examples like recipes or budgets
- Check results by reversing the operation (division) when possible
Common Misconceptions
- Multiplication is just fast addition and not a separate idea
- The order of factors always changes the result
- Multiplication by zero always makes error-free results
- Parentheses don’t affect the outcome unless there are negative numbers
- You only use multiplication for big numbers, not everyday counts
Thinking Differences
English speakers often teach multiplication as a distinct operation with clear properties, but learners may overemphasize memorized tables and miss how repeated addition and scaling relate to real-world problems.
Learning Tips
- Draw a picture or array to visualize grouping
- Memorize the basic times tables to speed up calculations
- Relate multiplication to repeated addition in real tasks
- Practice with mixed operations and parentheses
- Check your answer by dividing back when possible
- Create word problems from real-life scenarios
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'multiplication'?
A.An operation to find a total by adding the same number repeatedly
B.A type of division in mathematics
C.The process of identifying numbers
D.A method to arrange numbers in order
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'multiplication' correctly?
A.The multiplication of the water was essential for life.
B.In art class, we focused on the multiplication of colors.
C.She showed us how to do multiplication to find the area of the rectangle.
D.The multiplication of plants in the garden enhanced its beauty.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'multiplication'?
A.Product
B.Factorization
C.Addition
D.Subtraction
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'multiplication'?
A.Subtraction
B.Addition
C.Division
D.Factorization
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the concept of 'multiplication' applies?
A.If I buy three packs of gum, I will have a total that represents their combined value.
B.When there are two groups of people, and each group has five members, we can find the total using multiplication.
C.If I have five apples and I come across another group of three apples, I will consider them a division of fruits.
D.In cooking, measuring ingredients is essential for success.
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