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.
Let's practice subtraction.
5 minus 3 is 2.
Formal or technical term for subtraction, often used in computing or formal math.
This program performs subtraction processing.
The verb 引く (ひく) used to say 'minus' in arithmetic expressions. Pattern: A 引く B.
10 minus 4 is 6.
Pattern meaning 'subtract B from A'. More explicit than just 引く.
If you subtract 3 from 8, you get 5.
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.
Please delete unnecessary files.
Removal or elimination, often used for physical objects, impurities, or obstacles.
To remove or take away something unwanted. Verb phrase.
To deduct or subtract (e.g., from a total amount). Often used in financial contexts.
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.
Remove impurities.
Please remove the obstacles.
経費を差し引いた利益。
Profit after deducting expenses.
予算を削減する必要がある。
We need to reduce the budget.