Minus Sign (−)
Minus Sign
The mathematical minus sign represents subtraction or a negative value. It is longer and vertically centered compared with the keyboard hyphen.
Codes for −
| Unicode | |
|---|---|
| HTML entity | |
| HTML decimal | |
| HTML hexadecimal | |
| CSS escape | |
| JavaScript |
How to Type − on Windows and Word
For the most reliable Windows method, copy the symbol from this page. In Microsoft Word, type 2212 and press Alt+X. Word converts the hexadecimal Unicode value into −. Press Alt+X again to switch the symbol back to its code.
How to Type − on Mac, Chromebook, and Linux
On a Mac, open Character Viewer with Control+Command+Space, search for “Minus Sign”, and insert it. Chromebook users can copy the symbol or use the Unicode input method where supported. On Linux, press Ctrl+Shift+U, type 2212, and press Enter.
Examples and Correct Usage
Use − in expressions such as 8 − 3 = 5 and −12 °C. Do not substitute an en dash or hyphen when exact mathematical typography matters.
Use the actual Unicode character rather than a visually similar keyboard substitute when the distinction matters in mathematics, science, accessibility, searching, or data processing.