Translation guide
The branch of mathematics dealing with basic operations on numbers.
Referring to arithmetic as a subject or field of study.
The standard term for elementary school arithmetic. Used for basic calculations taught to children.
I was good at arithmetic in elementary school.
A more formal or old-fashioned term for arithmetic, sometimes used in historical or technical contexts.
Referring to the act of performing arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division.
Referring to one's ability to do arithmetic.
算数 (さんすう) refers to elementary school arithmetic, while 数学 (すうがく) refers to mathematics in general, including higher-level math like algebra and geometry. Use 算数 for basic arithmetic taught to children, and 数学 for secondary school math or the academic field.
When talking about doing arithmetic in daily life (e.g., splitting a bill, calculating a tip), 計算 (けいさん) is the most natural choice. 算数 can sound childish or too specific to schoolwork.
彼は算術の基礎を教えている。
He teaches the basics of arithmetic.
Can you do the arithmetic in your head?
この算数の問題を解いてください。
Please solve this arithmetic problem.
Practice is necessary to improve your arithmetic.