Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Sum: meaning, definitions and examples

➕
Add to dictionary

sum

 

[sʌm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A mathematical process of adding two or more numbers together to get a total.

Synonyms

outcome, result, total.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sum

Used primarily in mathematical contexts to denote the total amount resulting from the addition of two or more numbers or elements.

  • The sum of 5 and 8 is 13.
  • He calculated the sum of the expenses for the month.
total

Typically used to represent the final amount after all additions or the entire quantity of something. It can be used in both financial and casual contexts.

  • The total cost of the trip was $500.
  • She has a total of three pets at home.
result

Generally used to denote the effect or consequence of an action, situation, or event. It can be applied in various contexts, such as sports, tests, and problem-solving.

  • Her hard work paid off with great results in her exams.
  • They were disappointed with the results of the project.
outcome

Refers to the final result or consequence of a process, event, or situation. It's often used in discussions about decisions, experiments, and events.

  • We are waiting to see the outcome of the election.
  • The outcome of the experiment was not what we expected.

Examples of usage

  • The sum of 5 and 3 is 8.
  • What is the sum of 2, 4, and 6?
Context #2 | Noun

general

The total amount resulting from the combination of elements, parts, etc.

Synonyms

aggregate, total, whole.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sum

Used when referring to the result of adding numbers together, often in a mathematical or financial context.

  • The sum of 5 and 7 is 12.
  • Can you calculate the sum of these expenses?
total

Commonly used to describe the complete amount, especially in everyday life and informal situations.

  • The total cost for the dinner was $50.
  • He scored a total of 90 points in the game.
aggregate

Typically used in a formal or technical context to describe a total amount made up of smaller units or parts.

  • The aggregate sales of the company exceeded expectations.
  • When all the data is aggregated, we see a clear trend.
whole

Used to describe something complete or entire, often beyond just numerical values, can be used in a more abstract sense.

  • Please read the whole document before signing.
  • We spent the whole day at the park.

Examples of usage

  • The sum of all the parts is greater than the whole.
  • The sum of our efforts led to success.
Context #3 | Verb

mathematics

To add numbers or amounts together to get a total.

Synonyms

add up, calculate, total.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sum

Used in mathematical or financial contexts when referring to the result of adding numbers together.

  • The sum of 5 and 7 is 12
  • The sum total of the expenses was higher than expected
add up

Commonly used in casual conversation to describe the process of performing addition.

  • Can you add up the cost of these groceries? All those little expenses add up quickly
calculate

Best used in scientific, financial, or mathematical contexts when performing any type of arithmetic operations or figuring out numerical outcomes.

  • Engineers calculate the structural strength of a bridge
  • I need to calculate my monthly budget
total

Used to describe the final amount after everything has been added up, often used in everyday language and commerce.

  • What is the total cost of the repair? The total number of participants was 25

Examples of usage

  • I need to sum the total expenses for the month.
  • Can you sum these figures for me?

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'sum' comes from the Latin word 'summa,' which means 'the highest' or 'the total.'
  • Its usage in mathematics can be traced back to the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century.

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, the sum is the result of adding two or more numbers, known as 'addends.'
  • The sum is often represented by the symbol '+' during addition, indicating that numbers should be brought together.
  • There are different types of sums, including finite sums (adding a set number of numbers) and infinite sums (adding an endless series of numbers).

Psychology

  • Studies show that people can perform simple sums faster if they visualize numbers as objects, making mental math easier.
  • As children practice summing numbers, they enhance not only their math skills but also their problem-solving abilities and brain development.

Culture

  • In some cultures, sharing a 'sum' can symbolize unity and togetherness, reflecting communal values.
  • Certain games and puzzles, like Sudoku, involve the concept of sums, where players aim to reach specific totals in rows and columns.

Technology

  • Programming languages often have built-in functions for calculating sums, making complex calculations simpler for developers.
  • Data analysis tools frequently rely on sums to aggregate data, helping businesses make informed decisions based on total sales or revenue.

Translations

Translations of the word "sum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 soma

🇮🇳 योग

🇩🇪 Summe

🇮🇩 jumlah

🇺🇦 сума

🇵🇱 suma

🇯🇵 合計 (ごうけい)

🇫🇷 somme

🇪🇸 suma

🇹🇷 toplam

🇰🇷 합계 (hapgye)

🇸🇦 مجموع

🇨🇿 součet

🇸🇰 súčet

🇨🇳 总和 (zǒnghé)

🇸🇮 vsota

🇮🇸 summa

🇰🇿 қосынды

🇬🇪 ჯამი (jami)

🇦🇿 cəm

🇲🇽 suma

Word Frequency Rank

At #882 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.