# Multiplication precedes Negation

by Atran
Tags: multiplication, negation, precedes
P: 81
Hi,

 Example 1.2.1. We have −3 × 4 − 5 + (−3) = −(3 × 4) − 5 + (−3) = −12 − 5 − 3 = −20. Note that we have recognized that 3 × 4 takes precedence over the − signs.
Does the author mean that $−3 × 4 = 0 − 3 × 4 = −(3 × 4)$ or else?

I consider the minus-sign to be a unary operator, which is preceded by multiplication and division. Am I thinking right?
 PF Patron HW Helper Sci Advisor Thanks P: 11,935 It won't matter if you, with the unary operator of negation choose to regard -3*4 as (-3)*4 or as -(3*4). That is, the order of the unary operator and multiplication need not be formally agreed upon.
 HW Helper P: 1,372 I think it is safe to assume that a unary operator without parentheses is meant to bind more tightly than any operator near it. So unary negation you may assume applies to the term directly in front of it.
Mentor
P: 4,163

## Multiplication precedes Negation

When he says precedence over the minus signs he's referring to doing the 3*4 calculation before the -5 +(-3) calculation. As arildno says it doesn't matter whether you calculate (-3)*4 or -(3*4) as those are the same thing
PF Patron
HW Helper