IMSUB Function in LibreOffice Calc — Tested Examples
An explanation of LibreOffice Calc IMSUB, including tested formulas, examples, expected results and common mistakes.
Tested: Examples checked in LibreOffice Calc 25.2.3.2. What this means
Returns the difference of two complex numbers. Complex subtraction is component-wise: (3+4i)−(1+2i)=2+2i.
Syntax and arguments
=IMSUB(Complex_number_1; Complex_number_2)
LibreOffice Calc formulas generally separate arguments with semicolons (;).
| Argument | Explanation |
|---|---|
Complex number 1 |
Complex number 1 |
Complex number 2 |
Complex number 2 |
Worked examples
Example 1: Subtract two complex values
=IMSUB("3+4i";"1+2i")
Expected result: 2+2i. This value was returned in the LibreOffice Calc 25.2 test.
Example 2: Subtract complex components
=IMSUB("3+4i";"1+1i")
Expected result: 2+3i. This value was returned in the LibreOffice Calc 25.2 test.
How to interpret the result
Complex subtraction is component-wise: (3+4i)−(1+2i)=2+2i.
Mistakes and troubleshooting
- Check inputs and assumptions: Subtraction order matters. Reversing the two arguments changes the sign.
- Check argument order and format: Strings go in quotes, cell references do not. Functions that return arrays may require special entry.
- Verify your own data: Reproduce the example first. If your formula returns an error, inspect the referenced cells and individual argument values.
Related functions
Tested version and primary reference
2 example(s) on this page passed real calculations in LibreOffice Calc 25.2.3.2. This is not a claim about every possible input or other spreadsheet applications.