In fact, if you choose, you can sum up the issues involved in this negotiation in terms of differing views on the relative importance of the past and the future.

BBC: Durban: Climate summit looks back and forward

This is the sum the firm feels it could legitimately claim - in terms of monies spent on things like sponsorship, advertising, research and development - if it was forced to withdraw from cycling.

BBC: Business

In simple terms, economic value-added is almost entirely defined by the sum of wages and profits.

FORBES: Investment and Technological Progress

Tuition can be purchased in terms of years or units, either as a one-time lump sum or through monthly installment payments.

FORBES: Stop Procrastinating! Enroll In A College Savings Plan