Asymmetry: meaning, definitions and examples
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asymmetry
[ əˈsɪmɪtri ]
physics
Lack of symmetry or balance between two opposing forces or aspects. In physics, it refers to a situation where an object or system is not symmetrical in relation to a specific axis or plane.
Synonyms
disparity, imbalance, inequality
Examples of usage
- The asymmetry of the molecule affects its stability.
- The asymmetry in the experimental results raised questions about the accuracy of the measurements.
art
A lack of symmetry in design or composition, intentionally used to create visual interest or tension. It is often employed in modern art to challenge traditional notions of beauty and balance.
Synonyms
irregularity, nonuniformity, variability
Examples of usage
- The artist used asymmetry in the painting to evoke a sense of movement.
- The asymmetry of the sculpture added a dynamic element to the exhibit.
biology
The absence of symmetry or balance in the form or structure of an organism. It can refer to differences in size, shape, or arrangement of body parts.
Synonyms
dissimilarity, divergence, unevenness
Examples of usage
- The asymmetry of the flower petals puzzled the botanist.
- The genetic mutation led to asymmetry in the development of the organism.
Translations
Translations of the word "asymmetry" in other languages:
🇵🇹 assimetria
🇮🇳 असममिति
🇩🇪 Asymmetrie
🇮🇩 asimetris
🇺🇦 асиметрія
🇵🇱 asymetria
🇯🇵 非対称
🇫🇷 asymétrie
🇪🇸 asimetría
🇹🇷 asimetrik
🇰🇷 비대칭
🇸🇦 لاتماثل
🇨🇿 asymetrie
🇸🇰 asymetria
🇨🇳 不对称
🇸🇮 asimetrija
🇮🇸 ósamhverfa
🇰🇿 асимметрия
🇬🇪 ასიმეტრია
🇦🇿 asimmetriya
🇲🇽 asimetría
Word origin
The word 'asymmetry' originated from the combination of the prefix 'a-' meaning 'not' or 'without' and the word 'symmetry' which comes from the Greek 'summetria' meaning 'agreement in dimensions'. The concept of asymmetry has been studied across various fields including physics, art, and biology, highlighting the importance of imbalance and lack of symmetry in diverse contexts.
See also: symmetrical.