Definition:Subtraction

Abstract Algebra
In the context of abstract algebra, the concept of subtraction is defined as follows:

Also known as
The value $a - b$ (for any of the above definitions) is often called the difference between $a$ and $b$.

In this context, whether $a - b$ or $b - a$ is being referred to is often irrelevant, but it pays to be careful.

In certain historical texts, the term subduction can sometimes be seen.