v2.0

Minus Sign EmojiUnicode: 2796

Represents subtraction or decrease.

Released in The minus sign emoji ➖ was introduced in Unicode 1.1 in 1993 as part of the miscellaneous symbols, commonly used in digital communication for mathematical and symbolic purposes.

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Meaning and Interpretation

The minus sign emoji (➖) primarily symbolizes subtraction in mathematics, where it indicates the operation of deducting one value from another. Beyond math, it can represent a decrease, loss, or negative change in various contexts, such as finances, scores, or emotions. It's often used to convey reduction in quantity, time, or intensity, making it a versatile symbol in both formal and informal settings. For instance, it might highlight deficits or declines in discussions, emphasizing a downward trend or removal of elements.

Symbolism

  • Represents reduction or loss, often indicating a decrease in value or quantity.
  • Symbolizes negativity or opposition, such as in scores or balances where something is subtracted.
  • Acts as a metaphor for emotional downturns, like sadness or failure in personal conversations.

Common Usage Scenarios

  • In educational and mathematical contexts, such as explaining equations or solving problems.
  • In business or financial discussions to denote losses, declines in sales, or budget cuts.
  • In everyday casual chats to express reductions, like dieting or lowering expectations.

Usage Examples in Conversation

Hey, if I have 10 apples and I give away 3 ➖ that leaves me with 7!
Our team score is down by 5 points ➖ we're losing the game now.
I need to cut back on coffee ➖ maybe just one cup a day from now on.
The temperature dropped 10 degrees ➖ it's getting really cold outside.
My bank balance after expenses ➖ it's almost zero, time to save more.

Usage Guidelines and Etiquette

  • Use sparingly in positive contexts to avoid confusing the intended meaning with negativity.
  • Combine with other emojis for clarity, like pairing with numbers to specify the amount subtracted.
  • Avoid overuse in formal documents; opt for the actual minus symbol if precision is needed.

Related Emojis

Plus Sign

Represents addition or increase, often used in math or to show gains.

✖️

Multiply Sign

Symbolizes multiplication, common in calculations or scaling concepts.

Divide Sign

Indicates division, used for splitting or sharing in various scenarios.

🔢

Input Numbers

Represents numeric input, related to calculations involving symbols like minus.

📉

Chart Decreasing

Shows a downward trend, similar to minus for indicating losses or declines.

💸

Money with Wings

Symbolizes money loss or spending, aligning with minus in financial contexts.

📝

Memo

Used for notes or lists where subtraction might be calculated or noted.

🔽

Downwards Button

Indicates decrease or lowering, akin to the concept of subtraction.

↘️

South East Arrow

Represents a downward direction, metaphorically linked to reduction or minus.