Aperture: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in scientific and technical fields, especially in optics and photography, to describe an opening or hole that allows light or other forms of energy to pass through.

• The camera's aperture determines how much light reaches the sensor.
• The telescope has a wide aperture for better stargazing.

Can refer to an empty space or gap that allows access or passage, or to a new job opportunity or the initial part of an event or document. It's often used in neutral or formal contexts.

• There's an opening in the fence where we can enter.
• The company has a job opening in the IT department.

Refers to an opening or hollow place in a surface or material. It can be used in casual or informal contexts and can sometimes have a negative connotation, especially when referring to damage.

• He dug a hole in the ground for the plants.
• There's a hole in my shoe; I need a new pair.

Often used to describe a break or space between two things, whether physical or metaphorical. It can refer to physical spaces or abstract concepts such as time, knowledge, or differences.

• There's a noticeable gap between the two buildings.
• The generation gap is quite evident in their views on technology.

In photography and optics, 'aperture' refers to the opening in a lens through which light passes. It is commonly used in technical and professional settings.

• Adjust the aperture to control the amount of light entering the camera.
• A smaller aperture creates a greater depth of field.

'Hole' is a general term for any opening, often used in everyday situations. It can refer to openings in various objects, surfaces, or materials.

• There's a hole in my shirt.
• He dug a hole in the ground.

'Opening' is a broad term that can refer to any gap or space where something can pass through. It is very versatile and can be used in various contexts, from everyday language to more specific settings.

• There's an opening in the fence.
• She climbed through the opening in the wall.

'Lens opening' is specifically used in photography to describe the part of a camera or other optical instrument where light enters. It is less technical than 'aperture' and more descriptive for general use.

• Cover the lens opening to protect it from dust.
• The lens opening determines how much light reaches the sensor.

Used in technical or scientific contexts, especially in photography, optics, and mechanics.

• The camera's aperture was set to f/2
• 8 for the portrait
• Adjust the aperture to control the amount of light entering the telescope

Used to describe a space that allows passage or access, often in a neutral or positive context.

• He peeked through the opening in the fence
• The opening of the cave was barely visible from the path

Used generally to describe an empty space in something solid, often with a negative or casual connotation.

• There's a hole in my sock
• The dog dug a big hole in the backyard

Used to describe an opening in a wall to let light in or as a metaphor for an opportunity.

• She looked out of the window at the rain
• This is a window of opportunity that we must not miss