1. To remove or be removed from a number or tally. You have to subtract from the variable before you multiply because of the parentheses. They said they would be willing to offer us complimentary champagne rather than subtracting from our bill.

2. To diminish or detract from something. Thankfully the somewhat contrived plot doesn't subtract from the film's energy and charm. The star captain's absence really subtracted from the team's performance, perhaps more so than any of us might have guessed.

3. To remove someone, something, or a number from a group or larger thing. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "subtract" and "from." You can only subtract the expenses that were used specifically for business purposes from your tax return. We didn't order any movies from our room, so please subtract these charges from the bill. If we subtract out closest family and friends from the guest list, we're left with nearly 150 people.