subtract
suhb-TRAKT
Subtract (verb) means to take one number or amount away from another. Example: “Subtract the discount from the total before adding tax.”
verb
1
To take one number or amount away from another.
"Subtract the discount from the total before adding tax."
"If you subtract 8 from 20, you get 12."
How to use subtract
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo take away a quantity from another — the opposite of add.
Easily confused with
subtrahend
Common pairings
subtract from
add and subtract
subtract the difference
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- subtracts
- Past tense
- subtracted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ the discount from the total before adding tax.
Etymology
From Latin subtractus, past participle of subtrahere, from sub- ("from beneath") plus trahere ("to draw, pull").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “subtract” mean?
The word “subtract” means to take one number or amount away from another. In plain terms, to take away a quantity from another — the opposite of add.
How do you pronounce “subtract”?
“Subtract” is pronounced suhb-TRAKT (/səbˈtɹækt/ in IPA).
How do you use “subtract” in a sentence?
Here is “subtract” used in a sentence: “Subtract the discount from the total before adding tax.”
What is the opposite of “subtract”?
The opposite of “subtract” — its antonyms — are add and summate.
What part of speech is “subtract”?
“Subtract” is a verb.
Where does the word “subtract” come from?
The word “subtract” comes from Latin. From Latin subtractus, past participle of subtrahere, from sub- ("from beneath") plus trahere ("to draw, pull").
Is “subtract” a common word?
“Subtract” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
