subtotal: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

A 'subtotal' is an intermediate sum of a specific group of items within a larger set. A 'total' (or 'grand total') is the final, complete sum of all items, often after adding/subtracting elements like tax or discounts from the subtotal.

Yes, especially in business and computing contexts. 'To subtotal' means to calculate an intermediate sum, often for categories within a list. For example, 'The spreadsheet function subtotals sales by quarter.'

Yes. 'Subtotals' is commonly used when referring to multiple intermediate sums from different categories. For example, 'The financial statement shows subtotals for revenue, cost of goods sold, and operating expenses.'

Typically, after the subtotal (the sum of the item prices), additional lines for taxes (e.g., VAT), service charges, discounts, or shipping fees are added. The final amount payable is the grand total, calculated after these are applied to the subtotal.

An intermediate sum in a calculation, representing the total of a subset of items before final additions.

Subtotal is usually formal/technical (primarily business, finance, mathematics) in register.

Subtotal: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsʌbˌtəʊ.təl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌbˌtoʊ.t̬əl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.