[eli5] Trying to teach to an autistic child why 4 – (-2) is 4 +2.

Question

Title. I know it goes like that, but as an non mathematician can’t explain it to him.

In: 0

Answer 1

You owe me $2, you have -$2.

I take away the $2 you owe me, you have $2 more dollars now.

– signs do the “opposite” of + signs. If 5 + (-2) = 5 – 2 then 5 – (-2) = 5 + 2.