as in math
the act or process of performing mathematical operations to find a value
I haven't actually done the arithmetic yet, but I suspect we're losing money on the deal
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Recent Examples of arithmetic
That arithmetic has become increasingly difficult for Japan to fight.
—
Lee Ying Shan,
CNBC,
1 July 2026
Coalition arithmetic remains the central challenge, not just for Eisenkot but for the entire anti-Netanyahu bloc.
—
Tal Shalev,
CNN Money,
29 June 2026
The arithmetic was straightforward.
—
Nick Lichtenberg,
Fortune,
17 June 2026
The Bents understood the arithmetic of the frontier.
—
Kevin Strong,
CBS News,
15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for arithmetic
Lee Ying Shan,
CNBC,
1 July 2026
Coalition arithmetic remains the central challenge, not just for Eisenkot but for the entire anti-Netanyahu bloc.
—
Tal Shalev,
CNN Money,
29 June 2026
The arithmetic was straightforward.
—
Nick Lichtenberg,
Fortune,
17 June 2026
The Bents understood the arithmetic of the frontier.
—
Kevin Strong,
CBS News,
15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for arithmetic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for arithmetic
Noun
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In a 2025 story, USA TODAY explained the math behind that rule of thumb.
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Files, buffers, cuticle tools and even gel systems can last for months or years with proper care, which means the math tilts in favor of DIY after just a few uses.
Noun
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Even tiny electromagnetic disturbances can disrupt the quantum states that perform calculations, reducing the accuracy and reliability of the system.
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For this calculation, the institutional research department compared UC graduates’ earnings to out-of-pocket costs for their degrees and the opportunity costs of forgone wages of high school graduates of the same age.
Cite this Entry
“Arithmetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/arithmetic. Accessed 4 Jul. 2026.
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