Subtract
/səbˈtrækt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo take away (a number or amount) from another to calculate the difference.
/səbˈtrækt/
To take away a number or amount from a larger one.
Subtract 2 from 5, and the answer is 3.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have 10 cookies, and you eat 3. Subtracting means figuring out how many are left (which is 7!). It's like taking away!
👶 For kids: To take some things away from a group.
More Examples
We need to subtract the cost of the supplies from the total budget.
The teacher told the students to subtract 10 from 25.
How It's Used
"You subtract 5 from 10 to get 5."
"Subtract the expenses from the income to determine the profit."
To take away or remove from consideration; to detract from.
/səbˈtrækt/
To remove something from consideration or the overall amount.
We have to subtract his opinion from the final decision because it's biased.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're planning a perfect vacation, but a potential storm is looming. Subtracting means removing that possibility from your overall plan. It's like saying 'let's not worry about that'.
👶 For kids: To take something away from a list of ideas.
More Examples
The editor decided to subtract some lengthy passages to improve the flow.
Subtract the unnecessary details from the report.
How It's Used
"We must subtract the possibility of rain from our plans."
"Subtracting his flaws, he still remained a remarkable individual."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Latin *subtrahere* meaning 'to draw away, take away', from *sub-* (under, from below) + *trahere* (to draw).
The word 'subtract' has been used in mathematical contexts since the 14th century, reflecting the importance of accounting and calculation.
Memory tip
SUB (under) TRACT (draw). Imagine drawing something away from the total.
Word Origin
"to draw away, take away"