The word "maths" is pronounced /mæθs/. This pronunciation utilizes a short "a" sound as in "cat" followed by a "th" sound and a final "s".
Understanding the Pronunciation
The pronunciation of "maths" is relatively straightforward once you understand the individual sounds. Let's break it down:
- m: A simple "m" sound, as in "mat".
- æ: A short "a" sound, as in "cat" or "hat". This is a crucial element; it's not the long "a" sound as in "mate".
- θ: A voiceless "th" sound, as in "thin" or "think". Your tongue should be placed lightly between your teeth.
- s: A final "s" sound.
Putting it all together, you get /mæθs/. The emphasis should be on the first syllable.
Regional Variations
While /mæθs/ is a common and widely accepted pronunciation, slight variations may exist depending on regional accents and individual speech patterns. However, these variations are generally minor and shouldn't cause significant confusion.
Alternative Term: Math
It's important to note that in American English, the term "math" (singular) is more commonly used instead of "maths" (plural). The pronunciation of "math" is simply /mæθ/.
Examples in Context
- "I'm studying maths at university."
- "My favorite maths teacher always made learning fun."
The provided YouTube video snippet supports this pronunciation, emphasizing the importance of the "th" sound. Various online dictionaries (like Cambridge Dictionary) also confirm this pronunciation.
