/ ˈmaɪnəs; NAmE / preposition , noun , adjective
■ preposition
1.
used when you subtract (= take away) one number or thing from another one :
Seven minus three is four (7 − 3 = 4).
the former Soviet Union, minus the Baltic republics and Georgia
2.
used to express temperature below zero degrees :
It was minus ten.
The temperature dropped to minus 28 degrees centigrade (−28°C).
3.
( informal ) without sth that was there before :
We're going to be minus a car for a while.
OPP plus
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IDIOMS
see plus preposition
■ noun
1.
(also ˈminus sign ) The symbol (−), used in mathematics
2.
( informal ) a negative quality; a disadvantage :
Let's consider the pluses and minuses of changing the system.
OPP plus
■ adjective
1.
( mathematics ) lower than zero :
a minus figure / number
2.
making sth seem negative and less attractive or good :
What are the car's minus points (= the disadvantages) ?
On the minus side , rented property is expensive and difficult to find.
3.
[ not before noun ] (used in a system of marks / grades) slightly lower than the mark / grade A, B, etc. :
I got (a) B minus (B−) in the test.
OPP plus
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WORD ORIGIN
late 15th cent.: from Latin , neuter of minor less.