deduction

 
Pronunciation: /dɪˈdʌkʃ(ə)n/

noun

[mass noun]
  • 1the action of deducting or subtracting something: the dividend will be paid without deduction of tax
  • [count noun] an amount that is or may be deducted from something, especially from taxable income or tax to be paid: tax deductions
  • 2the inference of particular instances by reference to a general law or principle: the detective must uncover the murderer by deduction from facts [count noun]: we do not yet know if these deductions are correctOften contrasted with induction.

Origin:

late Middle English: from Latin deductio(n-), from the verb deducere (see deduce)