Subtraction: meaning, definitions and examples

➖

Add to dictionary

subtraction

[ səbˈtrækʃən ]

^{Context #1}

mathematical operation

Subtraction is a mathematical operation that finds the difference between two numbers. It is the inverse of addition, where one number is taken away from another.

Synonyms

deduction, minus, takeaway

Examples of usage

Can you solve this subtraction problem: 10 - 4 = ?
She struggled with subtraction until her teacher explained it to her.
We need to teach the students the basics of addition and subtraction.
The subtraction of fractions can be tricky for some students.
Subtraction is essential for many mathematical calculations.

^{Context #2}

decreasing something

Subtraction can also refer to the act of taking something away or decreasing the quantity or value of something.

Synonyms

deduction, diminution, reduction

Examples of usage

The subtraction of funds from the budget caused a financial crisis.
She regretted the subtraction of her favorite item from the menu.
The subtraction of resources led to a decline in productivity.
Subtraction of staff members resulted in a smaller team.
He advocated for the subtraction of harmful elements from the environment.

Translations

Translations of the word "subtraction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subtração

🇮🇳 घटाव

🇩🇪 Subtraktion

🇮🇩 pengurangan

🇺🇦 віднімання

🇵🇱 odejmowanie

🇯🇵 減算 (げんさん)

🇫🇷 soustraction

🇪🇸 sustracción

🇹🇷 çıkarma

🇰🇷 뺄셈

🇸🇦 طرح

🇨🇿 odčítání

🇸🇰 odčítanie

🇨🇳 减法 (jiǎnfǎ)

🇸🇮 odštevanje

🇮🇸 frádráttur

🇰🇿 азайту

🇬🇪 გამოკლება

🇦🇿 çıxma

🇲🇽 sustracción

Word origin

The word 'subtraction' originated from the Latin word 'subtrahere', which means 'to draw from beneath'. The concept of subtraction has been used in mathematics for centuries, with ancient civilizations developing various methods to perform subtraction. Over time, subtraction became a fundamental arithmetic operation taught in schools worldwide.