Math symbol reference

Superscript Minus

A Unicode superscript form of -.

UnicodeU+207B
LaTeX^{-}
HTML entity
HTML decimal⁻
MathML<mo>⁻</mo>

Semantic identity and intent

Semantic type

script-operator

A Unicode presentation character for a scripted operator or delimiter.

Primary search task

copy the scripted mark and decide whether structured notation is safer

Superscripts and Subscripts

MathML token

<mo>

Use ⁻ with the operand structure shown in the examples. Preserve grouping, limits, spacing, and evaluation order when converting between formats.

Characters to distinguish

  • ² — Superscript Two
  • ₁ — Subscript One
  • ⁰ — Superscript Zero

Use ⁻ in the right format

Meaning and usage

A Unicode superscript form of -.

For Superscript Minus (⁻), use it in plain text for compact exponents or labels; use semantic math markup for complex expressions.

Pronunciation: superscript minus

Formula examples

x⁻

How to type Superscript Minus

Windows
Open Character Map and search by name or Unicode U+207B.
macOS
Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search by the symbol name.
Microsoft Word
In an equation, type ^{-} and press Space when Word supports the command.
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 ^{-}.
Excel
Paste ⁻ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.

Common mistakes

  • Unicode superscript or subscript glyphs such as ⁻ are plain text; use structured LaTeX or MathML scripts when nesting, accessibility, or reliable layout matters.
  • For plain text, copy ⁻ as U+207B; for structured equations, use ^{-} in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Superscript Minus.

When to use ⁻

  • Use ⁻ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+207B.
  • Use ^{-} in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
  • Define the local meaning when Superscript Minus is used in super sub with a field-specific convention.

Look-alikes and related characters

  • ² — Superscript Two
  • ₁ — Subscript One
  • ⁰ — Superscript Zero

Font and compatibility notes

Font coverage varies; verify the code point and destination rendering before publication.

Continue the workflow

From Superscript Minus to a finished equation

  1. Copy the characterUse ⁻ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
  2. Choose a structured formatUse ^{-} for LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.

Review and source notes

Quality tier: catalog

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

Frequently asked questions

What does the Superscript Minus symbol mean?

A Unicode superscript form of -.

What is the LaTeX command for ⁻?

Use ^{-} in a compatible math environment.

Can I copy ⁻ as Unicode?

Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.

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