➖️
Minus Sign
MAI-nuhs
Definitions
1
Mathematical · Symbol
Common
A mathematical symbol indicating subtraction or negative values. Used in digital communication to represent reduction, removal, or negative sentiment.
Commonly used in calculations, lists, and to indicate negative status or removal of items.
Budget update: $500 ➖️ $125 = $375 remaining
Financial discussion
Today's workout: 30 min cardio ➖️ completed!
Fitness tracking
Beyond mathematics, serves as a visual shorthand for reduction or negativity in digital communication.
2
Interface · Control
Common
Represents a minus button or control in digital interfaces, indicating the action to decrease a value or zoom out.
Used when discussing app interfaces, controls, or explaining how to adjust settings.
Click the ➖️ button to reduce the volume
Tech support
Universally recognized interface element across digital platforms and devices.
Cultural Context
The minus sign emoji functions primarily as a utilitarian symbol in digital communication, with limited emotional or cultural connotations beyond its mathematical meaning.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Used primarily for practical purposes in calculations or list-making
Gen_Z: Rarely used except in educational contexts or when sharing calculations in homework help
Older: Limited usage, mainly in straightforward mathematical contexts
Millennials: Occasionally used in work contexts for budget discussions or project planning
Common Combinations
➖️➕
Pros and cons, positives and negatives, or mathematical operations
Used in discussions evaluating options or in educational contexts explaining math concepts
➖️💯
Reducing something by 100 or completely eliminating something
Often used in financial contexts or when discussing complete removal of items