Alignments: meaning, definitions and examples

🔧
Add to dictionary

alignments

 

[ əˈlaɪnmənts ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in mathematics

Arrangement of elements in a particular order, especially when comparing two or more sequences or structures.

Synonyms

arrangement, ordering, positioning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
alignments

Refers to the precise adjustment of parts in relation to one another, often used in technical or strategic contexts.

  • The mechanic checked the wheel alignments before the race
  • Their business strategies showed perfect alignments with each other
positioning

Refers to the placement of objects or people in a specific location or context, can also refer to strategic market placement.

  • The manager spent time positioning the new products on the shelves
  • Proper positioning in the market is crucial for a brand's success
ordering

Implies putting things in a sequential order or a specific sequence, often used in logistical or list-making contexts.

  • She spent hours ordering the files chronologically
  • The kitchen staff was busy ordering ingredients for the recipe

Examples of usage

  • The student studied the alignments of DNA sequences.
  • The alignments of the stars in the sky were mesmerizing.
Context #2 | Noun

in technology

Adjustment of components to achieve a specific position or orientation.

Synonyms

adjustment, alignment, calibration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
alignments

Generally refers to the state of being aligned, or the precise positioning of various components. Often used in technical and mechanical contexts.

  • Frequent alignments of the telescope are necessary for clear astronomical observations.
  • The software updates improved the alignments of multiple data points in the analysis.
adjustment

Used to indicate a small change or modification made to improve the function or fit of something. Often used in everyday settings as well as technical fields.

  • She made a quick adjustment to the seat before driving.
  • The financial plan may need some adjustments to meet the new goals.
calibration

Refers to the process of adjusting and setting a device or system to ensure it operates within its specified parameters. Frequently used in scientific, technical, and engineering domains.

  • The lab technician performed the calibration of the equipment to guarantee accurate results.
  • Before using the sensor, it must undergo a thorough calibration process.
alignment

Commonly used to describe the act of arranging in a straight line or the state of being so arranged. This word is also used more abstractly to refer to agreement or coordination among different elements.

  • Proper alignment of the sensors is crucial for accurate data collection.
  • There needs to be alignment between the company's mission and its strategic plans.

Examples of usage

  • The mechanic performed alignments on the car's wheels.
  • Proper alignments are crucial for the functioning of electronic devices.
Context #3 | Verb

in a general sense

To arrange or position something in a straight line or correct relative positions.

Synonyms

adjust, arrange, position.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
alignments

Used in technical or mechanical settings to ensure components are in the correct relative positions. It can also be used in strategic or organizational contexts.

  • The engineer checked the alignments of the gears
  • The company worked on its strategic alignments for the coming year
adjust

Used when making small, precise changes to improve the accuracy or functionality of something.

  • She adjusted the seat to fit her height
  • He adjusted the brightness on his monitor
arrange

Used when organizing items into a particular order or configuration, often emphasizing the spatial or temporal arrangement.

  • She arranged the flowers in a vase
  • They arranged a meeting for next week
position

Used when placing something in a specific place, often with a focus on the location or stance of the object or person.

  • He positioned the camera to get the best shot
  • She was positioned at the front of the stage

Examples of usage

  • Please align the text to the left margin.
  • The team needs to align their goals for better cooperation.

Translations

Translations of the word "alignments" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alinhamentos

🇮🇳 संरेखण

🇩🇪 Ausrichtungen

🇮🇩 penyelarasan

🇺🇦 вирівнювання

🇵🇱 wyrównania

🇯🇵 整列

🇫🇷 alignements

🇪🇸 alineaciones

🇹🇷 hizalamalar

🇰🇷 정렬

🇸🇦 محاذاة

🇨🇿 zarovnání

🇸🇰 zarovnania

🇨🇳 对齐

🇸🇮 poravnave

🇮🇸 jöfnun

🇰🇿 түзетілімдер

🇬🇪 გასწორება

🇦🇿 sıralamalar

🇲🇽 alineaciones

Etymology

The word 'alignments' originated from the Old French word 'alignement', which came from the Latin word 'alineare', meaning 'to bring into line'. The concept of aligning objects or elements has been essential in various fields such as mathematics, technology, and even interpersonal relationships.

See also: align, aligned, aligning, alignment, misalign, misalignment, nonaligned, realignment.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,471, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.