Subtotal: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Latin 'sub-' meaning 'under' and 'total' from the Latin 'totalis', meaning 'whole'.
• It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, emphasizing an amount that precedes a total.
• Many mathematical terms share roots with languages such as Latin, illustrating the global nature of arithmetic.

Usage in Mathematics

• Used frequently in accounting, a subtotal helps organize financial data by breaking down costs into segments.
• In spreadsheets, subtotal functions allow users to calculate grouped data without manual summation.
• It's essential for understanding how different elements contribute to a larger figure, promoting clarity in calculations.

Cultural References

• In everyday shopping, receipts commonly show subtotals to clarify purchase costs before tax and final totals.
• Television shows often depict characters calculating subtotals for budgeting, highlighting the importance of financial literacy.
• Games involving scoring often use subtotals to track points or achievements before reaching a final score.

Psychology of Numbers

• Breaking down numbers into subtotals can improve comprehension and reduce overwhelm, allowing for better mental processing.
• Using subtotals aids decision-making when budgeting, helping people visualize their financial situation more clearly.
• Psychological studies show that people are more likely to stick to a budget when they can see subtotals rather than just a grand total.

Impact on Learning

• Educators stress the importance of teaching subtotals as a way to build a solid foundation in math skills.
• Learning how to calculate subtotals serves as an introduction to more complex mathematical concepts like averages and percentages.
• Students often use subtotals when conducting experiments or projects, helping them understand the importance of detailed reporting.

At rank #27,310, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

• ...
• 27307 mellowed
• 27308 handicapping
• 27309 euphoric
• 27310 subtotal
• 27311 plover
• 27312 prophesying
• 27313 lithographed
• ...