Translation guide
The English verb 'subtract' is most commonly expressed in Japanese by the verb 引く (hiku), which covers mathematical subtraction as well as the physical act of pulling or removing. Other verbs like 差し引く (sashihiku) and 減じる (genjiru) are used in more specific contexts such as finance or formal writing.
To take one number away from another in arithmetic.
The standard verb for subtraction in mathematics. Used in everyday arithmetic and school settings.
10から3を引くと7になる。
If you subtract 3 from 10, you get 7.
This problem is subtraction.
Literally 'deduct by difference'. Used in formal or financial contexts, often implying a net calculation after deductions.
After subtracting expenses, the profit is small.
A formal, somewhat literary verb meaning 'to reduce' or 'to subtract'. Rare in everyday speech.
The amount after subtracting expenditures from income becomes savings.
To remove a part from a whole, such as in finance, time, or abstract quantities.
Commonly used for deducting amounts in business, accounting, or when considering net results.
How much is the take-home pay after subtracting taxes?
Can be used in casual contexts for deducting or taking away, but 差し引く is more precise for financial deductions.
Means 'to reduce' or 'to decrease'. Not a direct translation of 'subtract', but often used when talking about reducing quantities.
To pull or take something away from a place or situation.
引く is the general verb for subtraction in math and casual contexts. 差し引く is preferred in financial or formal situations where a net amount is calculated after deductions. Using 引く in a business report may sound too casual.
Gross profit after subtracting cost from sales.
In English, 'subtract' can be used metaphorically (e.g., 'subtract the negative influences'). In Japanese, 引く or 差し引く are rarely used this way. Instead, use verbs like 取り除く (remove) or 減らす (reduce).
Please subtract the handling fee from this amount.
Subtract waste and increase profit.
He subtracted himself from the plan (withdrew).