U+2213\mp∓<mo>∓</mo>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ± — Plus–Minus Sign
- − — Minus Sign
Use ∓ in the right format
Meaning and usage
Pairs a negative-first and positive-second choice with a corresponding plus-minus expression.
Use it alongside ± when two equations require opposite sign choices in matching order.
Pronunciation: minus plus sign
Formula examples
x=a\pm b,\ y=c\mp dHow to type Minus Plus Sign
- Windows
- Use Character Map and search for Minus Plus Sign, or paste the Unicode character (U+2213).
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search for Minus Plus Sign.
- Microsoft Word
- In an equation, type \mp and press Space when Word supports the command; otherwise insert the Unicode character.
- iPhone and iPad
- Copy and paste ∓, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
- Android
- Copy and paste ∓, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
- Google Docs
- For plain text, paste ∓ or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify \mp.
- Excel
- Paste ∓ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Preserve grouping, operator order, and spacing around ∓; Use it alongside ± when two equations require opposite sign choices in matching order.
- For plain text, copy ∓ as U+2213; for structured equations, use \mp in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Minus Plus Sign.
When to use ∓
- Use ∓ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+2213.
- Use \mp in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Minus Plus Sign is used in basic math, algebra with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ± — Plus–Minus Sign
- − — Minus Sign
Font and compatibility notes
Glyph shape can vary by font. Verify the code point after copying, and prefer LaTeX or MathML for structured equations.
Continue the workflow
From Minus Plus Sign to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ∓ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\mpfor LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations. - Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.
Review and source notes
Quality tier: specialist
Last reviewed: 2026-07-23
Review method: Catalog review of character identity and notation mappings.
Verified against: Unicode Standard, Unicode mathematical notation guidance, and established LaTeX/MathML syntax.
Reference sources
- The Unicode StandardUnicode Consortium — Character identity, encoding, names, and conformance.
- Unicode Character Code ChartsUnicode Consortium — Code points and official character charts.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Minus Plus Sign symbol mean?
Pairs a negative-first and positive-second choice with a corresponding plus-minus expression.
What is the LaTeX command for ∓?
Use \mp in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ∓ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.