What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
minus
Example
Five minus two equals three. [minus: preposition]
Example
The team lost the game by six points, minus their star player. [minus: preposition]
Example
The cake was delicious, minus the burnt edges. [minus: preposition]
without
Example
I can't imagine life without my family. [without: preposition]
Example
She went to the party without her phone. [without: preposition]
Example
He managed to finish the project without any help. [without: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Without is more commonly used than minus in everyday language. Without is a common word that can be used in many different situations, while minus is more specific to mathematical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between minus and without?
Minus is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, while without is more casual and informal, making it suitable for use in both formal and informal contexts.
