Minus - Definition with Examples

What is Minus?

Minus sign is used in mathematics for multiple representations. 

• Subtraction operation

         Minus represents the arithmetic operation of subtraction between two numbers. For example,  

Minus sign also means taking something away from a given value. 

For example, Darby has 6 gingerbread with her and she gives 3 gingerbread to Kelly. 

So 6 minus 3 is equal to 3. Darby is left with 3 gingerbread.

• To represent negative integers

        The minus sign is used to represent negative integers, whole numbers less than zero (no fractions).

For representing a negative integer, add a negative sign in front of a whole number. 

For example, negative integer 3 is represented as: -3

• Mathematical operations on integers using ‘Minus’ sign

        Multiplication of two negative numbers gives a positive. 

        Minus x Minus  = Positive

        For example,

         - 4 -10 = + 40

• Use in measurement 

        For example, A temperature of  - 3˚ C means 3 degrees below zero.

        Another example, 

        The temperature is 4˚ C and then drops -10˚. What is the temperature now? 

         4 - 10 = -6

         The answer is -6˚C

• To represent opposite directions

        We use the minus sign to represent a negative direction on a graph paper. 

It also runs in the negative direction.