Translation guide
How to express the mathematical operation of subtraction and the general concept of removing or taking away in Japanese.
To express the arithmetic operation of subtraction (e.g., 5 - 3 = 2).
The most common word for subtraction as a mathematical operation. Used in elementary math contexts.
To express the general action of removing something from a larger whole.
Deletion or removal, often used for digital content (files, text) or abstract items.
To express the concept of something becoming less in quantity or degree.
引き算 is specifically the arithmetic operation. For removing objects or deleting files, use 削除, 除去, or 取り除く instead.
削除 is for deleting data, text, or abstract items. 除去 is for physically removing objects or impurities. 取り除く is a more general verb for taking away something unwanted.
Let's practice subtraction.
5引く3は2です。
5 minus 3 is 2.
Formal or technical term for subtraction, often used in computing or formal math.
このプログラムは減算処理を行います。
This program performs subtraction processing.
The verb 引く (ひく) used to say 'minus' in arithmetic expressions. Pattern: A 引く B.
10引く4は6です。
10 minus 4 is 6.
Pattern meaning 'subtract B from A'. More explicit than just 引く.
8から3を引くと5になります。
If you subtract 3 from 8, you get 5.
不要なファイルを削除してください。
Please delete unnecessary files.
Removal or elimination, often used for physical objects, impurities, or obstacles.
不純物を除去する。
Remove impurities.
To remove or take away something unwanted. Verb phrase.
障害物を取り除いてください。
Please remove the obstacles.
To deduct or subtract (e.g., from a total amount). Often used in financial contexts.
経費を差し引いた利益。
Profit after deducting expenses.
Decrease or reduction in number/amount. Noun and suru-verb.
人口が減少している。
The population is decreasing.
Cutback or reduction, often used for budgets, costs, or resources.
予算を削減する必要がある。
We need to reduce the budget.