minus - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
minus Word Meanings
- a term indicating subtraction or a lack of something
- denoting a negative quantity
minus Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
minus Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmaɪnəs/
US
/ˈmaɪnəs/
minus Word Etymology
Root decomposition: minus (from Latin minus, meaning 'less') → derived from Old French. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a number line where 'minus' represents moving to the left, away from zero, towards increasingly negative values.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Minus is used in math to indicate subtraction and in general English to express a lack or a negative amount. It can modify nouns or phrases to show a deficit or lower amount, and it can function as a prefix in expressions like minus two degrees. The term often appears before numbers or quantities, signaling a reduction or a value below zero. Learners should distinguish minus from words like 'without' or 'less' and note its fixed collocations in science, finance, and weather. In everyday speech and formal contexts, minus communicates a decrease, a deficit, or a negative value.
Usage Reminders
- - Minus is used with numbers to indicate subtraction or negative values.
- - It can describe a lack or deficit before a quantity.
- - Do not confuse with the word 'less' in all contexts; collocations matter.
- - In temperature or money contexts, minus precedes the quantity.
- - Pay attention to fixed expressions and scientific contexts where minus is standard.
Common Misconceptions
- Minus always means 'less' in every sentence
- It is only a math term, never used for other meanings
- You must put minus before every number you mention
- Minus and negative are the same word in every context
- If a sentence uses 'less', it must use minus
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, minus often signals subtraction or a negative value; learners may overextend it to meanings like 'less' in casual speech.
Learning Tips
- Practice with simple equations: 8 minus 3 equals 5.
- Use minus for temperatures like minus 10 degrees.
- Note how minus can describe a lack (minus a budget).
- Compare with 'less' and 'without' to see nuance.
- Listen for fixed phrases in science and finance.
- Read and listen to math and news to hear natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'minus'?
A.Add
B.Divide
C.Multiply
D.Subtract
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'minus' correctly?
A.She plus her friend went to the party.
B.I subtracted 5 from 10 to get the answer.
C.The teacher asked the students to minus the final exam score.
D.He multiplied the numbers together.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'minus'?
A.Combine
B.Increase
C.Add
D.Lessen
Step 4: Opposite Words
In which situation would you use 'minus'?
A.Calculating the total amount
B.Adding ingredients to a recipe
C.Finding the average of a set of numbers
D.Taking away a certain quantity from a whole
Step 5: Mastery
Can you provide an example of using 'minus' in a real-life context?
A.Student: 'I need to minus the cost of my lunch from my total allowance.'
B.Teacher: 'Please add the answer to your worksheet.'
C.Doctor: 'I will multiply the dosage by 2.'
D.Chef: 'Let's divide the cake into equal slices for the guests.'
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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