Another name for subtraction.
In math, minus is the word we use to describe subtraction. It tells us that we are taking one quantity away from another.
For example:
- 7 − 3 means 7 minus 3, which equals 4.
- 10 − 6 means 10 minus 6, which equals 4.
The symbol for minus is the − sign.
We also use minus to describe negative numbers:
- −5 means “negative five.”
- The minus sign shows that the number is less than zero.
So, minus can mean:
- Taking away (subtraction)
- Indicating a negative number
When Do Students Learn About Minus?
Students begin learning about minus when they are introduced to subtraction.
Grades K–2 – Introduction to Minus and Subtraction
Students practice taking away objects and solving basic subtraction problems.
Grades 3+ – Using Minus with Larger and Negative Numbers
Students subtract multi-digit numbers and begin working with negative numbers.
