Minus: meaning, definitions and examples
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minus
[ ˈmaɪnəs ]
mathematics
The operation of subtraction, used to find the difference between two numbers.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
minus |
Used in math or to describe a reduction or disadvantage. Common in both formal and informal settings.
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subtract |
Mainly used in mathematical situations, especially in educational contexts.
|
take away |
Used informally to describe removing something from a total or situation. Common in everyday language.
|
deduct |
Often used in formal or financial contexts to mean taking an amount away from a total, such as taxes or expenses.
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Examples of usage
- 5 minus 3 equals 2
- She calculated the result by using the minus sign.
informal
A negative aspect or characteristic.
Synonyms
con, disadvantage, drawback.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
minus |
Used when talking about simple numerical reductions or deficits, typically in casual or mathematical conversations.
|
disadvantage |
Formal context where you need to identify an unfavorable condition or circumstance, often in academic, professional, or detailed discussions.
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drawback |
Used when acknowledging a problem or less desirable feature in an otherwise positive situation. Slightly formal.
|
con |
Commonly used in discussions about pros and cons to highlight the negative side or aspect of a particular situation or choice. Informal use.
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Examples of usage
- The downside of the plan was seen as a minus by the team.
- His lack of experience was viewed as a minus during the interview.
informal
Unwelcome or undesirable.
Synonyms
negative, unfavorable, unwelcomed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
minus |
Used in mathematical contexts or to indicate something that is lacking or absent.
|
negative |
Commonly used to describe something harmful, pessimistic, or a value below zero.
|
unfavorable |
Used to describe conditions or situations that are not good, convenient, or suitable.
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unwelcomed |
Describes someone or something that is not wanted or received poorly, often carrying a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- His minus attitude brought down the mood of the group.
- The minus feedback was not well received by the team.
Translations
Translations of the word "minus" in other languages:
🇵🇹 menos
- menos (-)
- menos (desvantagem)
🇮🇳 माइनस (गणितीय)
🇩🇪 Minus
🇮🇩 minus
- kurang
- kerugian
🇺🇦 мінус
🇵🇱 minus
- ujemny
- wada
🇯🇵 マイナス (数値的)
🇫🇷 moins
🇪🇸 menos
🇹🇷 eksi
🇰🇷 마이너스
🇸🇦 ناقص
🇨🇿 mínus
🇸🇰 mínus
🇨🇳 减 (jiǎn)
🇸🇮 minus
🇮🇸 mínus
🇰🇿 минус
🇬🇪 მინუსი
🇦🇿 minus
🇲🇽 menos
Etymology
The word 'minus' originated from Latin 'minus', meaning 'less'. In mathematics, the term has been used since the 15th century to denote the operation of subtraction. Over time, 'minus' has also come to be used informally to indicate negative aspects or characteristics. The word has evolved to represent the concept of reduction, negativity, or disadvantage in various contexts.
See also: minuscule.