What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deduction
Example
Based on the evidence presented, my deduction is that the suspect is guilty. [deduction: noun]
Example
The company made a deduction from my paycheck for health insurance. [deduction: noun]
Example
I will deduct the cost of the materials from the total project budget. [deduct: verb]
subtraction
Example
The subtraction of 5 from 10 results in 5. [subtraction: noun]
Example
The removal of the old furniture was a necessary subtraction from the room's clutter. [subtraction: noun]
Example
The company announced a subtraction of 10% from all prices during the sale. [subtraction: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Subtraction is more commonly used than deduction in everyday language, especially in mathematical contexts. Deduction is more commonly used in academic or intellectual contexts, such as logic, reasoning, and analysis.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deduction and subtraction?
Deduction is typically associated with a more formal tone, while subtraction is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
