What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subtraction
Example
The subtraction of 5 from 10 results in 5. [subtraction: noun]
Example
After the subtraction of expenses, the company's profit margin decreased. [subtraction: gerund or present participle]
decrease
Example
The temperature will decrease as the night progresses. [decrease: verb]
Example
There has been a decrease in the number of students attending the school. [decrease: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decrease is more commonly used than subtraction in everyday language due to its versatility and broader range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subtraction and decrease?
Both subtraction and decrease are formal words that can be used in academic or technical writing. However, subtraction is more specific and technical, while decrease is more general and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
