multiplication and division; vicissitudes of life
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesnoun
multiplication and division; general calculation; arithmetic
formalA formal and somewhat literary term for basic arithmetic operations or calculations in general.
Although this child is young, he is already proficient in the four arithmetic operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
The answer to this problem lies in simple multiplication and division.
noun
vicissitudes; the ups and downs of life; cyclical changes of worldly affairs
literaryA literary and metaphorical term describing the ever-changing nature of fate, fortune, or worldly events. It originates from the mathematical concept (multiplication for increase, division for decrease).
The poet lamented the vicissitudes of honor and disgrace in life and couldn't help but feel melancholy.
Having experienced the ups and downs of officialdom, he has long been indifferent to its vicissitudes.
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All things in the world, their rise and fall, their vicissitudes, are all predestined.