The given expression is:

$(v - 2w - 5) - 4$

Let's simplify it step by step.

1. Distribute the negative sign to the terms inside the parentheses: $v - 2w - 5 - 4$

2. Combine the constants $-5$ and $-4$: $v - 2w - 9$

So, the simplified expression is:

$v - 2w - 9$

Would you like further details, or do you have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this:

1. How do we handle parentheses in more complex expressions?
2. How do you simplify expressions with multiple variables?
3. What are the steps for combining like terms in algebra?
4. Can parentheses be used to group terms in any equation?
5. How do you apply the distributive property when solving equations?

Tip: Always combine like terms after distributing to simplify the expression effectively.