Asymmetrical: meaning, definitions and examples

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asymmetrical

 

[ ˌeɪsɪˈmetrɪkəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

shapes

Having parts or aspects that are not equal or equivalent; not symmetrical.

Synonyms

lopsided, unbalanced, uneven.

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Word Description / Examples
asymmetrical

Used to describe objects, patterns, or designs that lack symmetry or do not mirror evenly. Often used in art, design, and science.

  • The vase had an asymmetrical shape, making it look modern
  • The asymmetrical pattern on the fabric made it stand out
uneven

Describes a surface, distribution, or condition that is not level or equal. Commonly used for physical surfaces, workloads, or emotional states.

  • The path was so uneven that it was difficult to walk on
  • Their progress in the project was uneven, with some parts well developed and others neglected
lopsided

Usually describes something that is unevenly balanced or tilted to one side, often implying a negative or undesirable condition. Commonly used for physical objects and sometimes situations.

  • The painting hung lopsided on the wall
  • Their argument seemed lopsided, with one person doing all the talking
unbalanced

Refers to a lack of balance that may result in instability or unfairness. Can be used for physical objects, situations, mental states, or financial aspects.

  • The unbalanced load caused the cart to tip over
  • His unbalanced mental state required professional help

Examples of usage

  • The building had an asymmetrical design with one side taller than the other.
  • Her hair was cut in an asymmetrical style, longer on one side than the other.
Context #2 | Adjective

relationships

Not corresponding in size, shape, or position; lacking symmetry.

Synonyms

disproportionate, imbalanced, unequal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
asymmetrical

Used when referring to objects or shapes that are not identical on both sides of a central line.

  • The artist's painting is asymmetrical, creating a unique sense of balance
  • The building's design is asymmetrical, giving it a modern look
disproportionate

Used when referring to something that is out of proportion in size, amount, or intensity compared to something else.

  • The punishment was disproportionate to the offense
  • The large number of workers for such a small project seems disproportionate
unequal

Used when referring to conditions or amounts that are not the same or not fair, especially in terms of rights or opportunities.

  • They faced unequal opportunities in their careers
  • The resources were distributed in an unequal manner among the departments
imbalanced

Used when there is a lack of balance or harmony, often in a negative context.

  • The diet is imbalanced and lacks essential nutrients
  • Their workload distribution is imbalanced, causing stress among employees

Examples of usage

  • The couple had an asymmetrical relationship, with one partner dominating the other.
  • The negotiations were difficult due to the asymmetrical power dynamics.

Translations

Translations of the word "asymmetrical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assimétrico

🇮🇳 असममित

🇩🇪 asymmetrisch

🇮🇩 asimetris

🇺🇦 асиметричний

🇵🇱 asymetryczny

🇯🇵 非対称

🇫🇷 asymétrique

🇪🇸 asimétrico

🇹🇷 asimetrik

🇰🇷 비대칭

🇸🇦 غير متماثل

🇨🇿 asymetrický

🇸🇰 asymetrický

🇨🇳 不对称

🇸🇮 asimetričen

🇮🇸 ósamhverfur

🇰🇿 асимметриялық

🇬🇪 ასიმეტრიული

🇦🇿 asimmetrik

🇲🇽 asimétrico

Etymology

The word 'asymmetrical' comes from the combination of the prefix 'a-' meaning 'not' and the word 'symmetrical', which is derived from the Greek 'symmetria' meaning 'agreement in dimensions, due proportion'. Asymmetry is a common concept in design, art, and nature, where lack of symmetry can often create interest and uniqueness.

See also: symmetrically.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,927, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.