Minus
Example: Five minus two equals three in math
Definition
"Minus" is a preposition used to indicate subtraction or the removal of a quantity from another, as in math when one number is taken away from another. For example, in the phrase 'Five minus two equals three,' it shows the operation of subtracting two from five.
Etymology
The word "minus" comes from Latin, where it directly meant 'less' or 'smaller.' It was adopted into English in the 16th century primarily in mathematical contexts to signify subtraction. Did you know that its Latin root is also the source for the English word 'minuscule,' meaning very small?
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"Minus" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - (A1) - set 2", containing 103 commonly used words.
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