improper fraction

American  

noun

Mathematics.

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

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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)

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improper fraction Scientific  

/ ĭm-prŏp′ər /

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

2. Compare proper fraction

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Etymology

Origin of improper fraction

First recorded in 1535–45

Example Sentences

Reduction of an improper fraction to a mixed number.

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

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

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