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improper fraction

American  

noun

Mathematics.
  1. a fraction having the numerator greater than the denominator.


improper fraction British  

noun

  1. a fraction in which the numerator has a greater absolute value or degree than the denominator, as 7/ 6 or ( x ² + 3)/( x + 1)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

improper fraction Scientific  
/ ĭm-prŏpər /
  1. A fraction in which the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator, such as 3/2.

  2. Compare proper fraction


Etymology

Origin of improper fraction

First recorded in 1535–45

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Rate-payers will be grateful for even a fraction of a penny, so long as it is not an improper fraction.

From Punch or the London Charivari, Vol. 104, May 27, 1893 by Burnand, F. C. (Francis Cowley), Sir

After all I did not care an improper fraction whether I stayed or went: let the gods decide.

From The Professor's Mystery by Hastings, Wells

Reduction of a mixed number to an improper fraction.

From A Review of Algebra by Rivenburg, Romeyn Henry

An improper fraction is therefore equal either to an integer or to a mixed number.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Slice 5 "Arculf" to "Armour, Philip" by Various

Reduction of an improper fraction to a mixed number.

From A Review of Algebra by Rivenburg, Romeyn Henry