Sottraendo

Sottraendo is a mathematical term used in subtraction, referring to the number that is subtracted from another number, called the minuendo, to obtain the difference.

In an arithmetic subtraction a − b, a is the minuendo and b is the sottraendo; the result, a − b, is the difference. The term identifies the second operand in the subtraction operation.

Etymology: The word derives from Italian sottrarre (to subtract) and the past participle sottraendo, literally meaning that which is being subtracted. It is cognate with the English term subtrahend, and with Spanish sustraendo in related contexts.

Usage: Sottraendo is used in teaching, textbooks, and formal descriptions of subtraction in contexts where Italian terminology is preferred. In English-language mathematics, the corresponding term is subtrahend.

Examples: In 57 − 42 = 15, 57 is the minuendo and 42 is the sottraendo; the difference is 15. In column subtraction, the number written beneath the minuendo that is to be subtracted is the sottraendo.

See also: Minuendo, Subtrahend (sottraendo in Italian), Subtraction.

Notes: The term is primarily used in Italian-language contexts; in other languages the exact term varies (sustraendo in Spanish, subtrahend in English). Some references may translate as "subtrahend" to maintain cross-language consistency.