Definition

Describing something that is negative or less than zero, often used in mathematics or to indicate a lower quality or rank.

Example

The temperature dropped to minus ten degrees last night.

Conversation

Did you hear that it's going to be minus ten degrees tonight?

Wow, that's really cold! I should probably wear my heavy jacket.

Yeah, I can't believe how quickly the temperature dropped.

I know, right? Last week it was warm, and now we're facing minus temperatures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A term used to describe a negative value or quantity, often represented by the symbol (-).

Example

In mathematics, you can subtract a number by using the minus sign.

Conversation

Did you see the report on our project?

Yeah, but I noticed a minus in the budget section.

I was worried about that; we can't afford any minus in our expenses.

Definition

Used to indicate that something is being taken away or is not included; often used in mathematics to show subtraction.

Example

The total cost is fifty dollars minus ten dollars for the discount.

Conversation

I forgot my wallet at home, so I'm going out minus any cash.

Oh no! That's a tough situation to be in.

Yeah, I guess I'll just have to grab something cheap.

Root Explanation

Minus → It originates from Latin 'minus' (meaning less). The word 'minus' refers to a quantity that is less than another or a subtraction operation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'less' in Latin ('minus') to remember that 'minus' means to take away or indicate a smaller amount.

Visually Confused Words