Maths dictionary
What is a negative number?
A negative number is a number less than zero. It is written with a minus sign and sits to the left of zero on a number line.
Definition
A negative number is a number less than zero. It is written with a minus sign and sits to the left of zero on a number line.
Example
−5 is five below zero. 2 + (−5) = −3.
Tip
Further left on the number line means smaller: −8 is less than −2.
Practise it
- Learn it visually: Negative Numbers (interactive lesson)
- Worksheets: Adding and subtracting negative numbers (Grade 6)
- Worksheets: Multiplying and dividing integers (Grade 7)
- Online maths practice
Quick check: try these
Work each one out on paper, then tap the question to see the answer.
10 − 4 =
Answer: 6
2 − 7 =
Answer: -5
−2 + 4 =
Answer: 2
−1 − 3 =
Answer: -4
Learn it in depth
Negative number is part of Integers for Class 7: notes, formulas, solved examples with every step, common mistakes and ten practice questions with answers. Want a teacher to go through it with you? See Class 7 maths tuition.
Related words
FAQ
Negative number: questions
What is a negative number?
A negative number is a number less than zero. It is written with a minus sign and sits to the left of zero on a number line. −5 is five below zero. 2 + (−5) = −3.
What is a common mistake with negative number?
Further left on the number line means smaller: −8 is less than −2.
Where do students learn negative number?
Integers is usually taught in Class 7, and the ideas come back in later classes. Chapter names and order differ by board and textbook, so follow your own textbook. We have a full page with notes, solved examples and practice questions.
Play it, don't just read it
Try it now: Profit and loss
Eight quick questions with instant feedback. Your score is saved on this device and counts in the games and learning paths too.
Profit and loss (Grade 7): Finding profit or loss as a percentage of the cost price, and the selling price after a gain or loss. Open the practice page or print a worksheet.
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