# subtraction

/səbˈtɹækʃən/ (US) · /sʌbtɹˈækʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/subtraction
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the process of taking one number or amount away from another. It is the opposite of addition.

For teachers: the mathematical operation of removing one number from another; the result of such an operation.

## Examples

- The subtraction of five from ten leaves five.
- The accountant performed the subtraction of the monthly expenses from the total revenue to calculate the profit.
- In algebra, the subtraction of variables follows the same rules as the subtraction of whole numbers, provided the terms are like terms.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.