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Subtotal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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subtotal

[ˈsʌbˌtoʊtəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

financial statement

A subtotal is a figure that represents a sum of a subset of data within a larger dataset. It is often used in financial documents to indicate an intermediate total before arriving at a final total. Subtotals can help in organizing financial information, making it easier to analyze and understand. They can appear in various forms of accounting statements, invoices, or budgets.

Synonyms

aggregate, intermediate total, partial sum.

Examples of usage

  • The subtotal of the expenses was calculated before taxes.
  • Don't forget to check the subtotal on the invoice before payment.
  • The subtotal should be listed clearly to avoid any confusion.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'subtotal'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'subtotal' is a compound word formed from the prefix 'sub-', which comes from Latin meaning 'under' or 'below', and 'total', which is derived from the Latin 'totalis', meaning 'whole' or 'entire'. The term began to be used in English in the early 20th century, particularly in accounting and financial contexts, to describe a total that represents only a part of a whole. The use of subtotals became increasingly important as businesses grew and financial reporting became more complex. They provide clarity and structure to financial documents, allowing for easier decision-making and analysis.

Word Frequency Rank

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