Algebra is a type of math that uses letters and symbols to represent numbers and quantities. Instead of just using numbers, we use letters like abc or xyz to stand for unknown values that we want to figure out.
For example, let’s say we want to figure out what number we need to add to 4 to get 10. We could write that as an algebraic equation like this: 4 + x = 10. The letter x stands for the unknown value that we need to find. By using algebra, we can solve for x and figure out that x is equal to 6.
There are four common expressions of algebra with respect to addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
When we say 3 more than x, it will be usually expressed as x + 3. 3 + x may also be acceptable but more precisely would be interpreted as x more than 3. Add, sum, and more than, etc. are words with meaning associated to addition.
When we say 3 less than x, it will be usually expressed as x minus 3. It is not common to use minus 3 + x as an alternative, although numerically the equation provides the same result. Subtract, remove, difference, take away etc. are words with meaning associated to subtraction.
When we say multiply x by 3 times, it will be expressed as 3x. It is worth noting that the multiplication sign x is omitted to avoid confusion. Multiply, product, 5 times 8, double, triple etc. are words with meaning associated to multiplication.
When we say one third of x, it will be expressed as x times one-third, or simply expressed as x over 3. Divide, half, split, quotient, 2 over 5 etc. are words with meaning associated to division.
Expressions |
Common
wordings |
Example |
Meaning |
Addition (+) |
Add, sum, more than |
x + 3 |
3 more than x |
Subtraction (-) |
Subtract, remove, difference, take away |
x – 3 |
3 less than x |
Multiplication (x) |
Multiply, product, 5 times 8, double, triple |
3x |
Multiply x by 3 times |
Division (÷) |
Divide, half, split, Quotient, 2 over 5 |
x / 3 |
One third of x |