Diagonally: meaning, definitions and examples

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diagonally

 

[ˌdaɪˈæɡənəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

moving direction

In a diagonal manner; at an angle.

Examples of usage

  • It's easier to cut the cake diagonally.
  • The parking spaces are arranged diagonally.
Context #2 | Adjective

shape

In a slanting direction not parallel to the sides of a rectangle or other straight-sided shape.

Examples of usage

  • A diagonal line across the square.
  • The tablecloth had a diagonal pattern.
Context #3 | Noun

mathematics

A straight line that is at an angle to the horizontal or vertical.

Examples of usage

  • The diagonal of a square is longer than its side.
  • She drew a diagonal through the points on the graph.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'diagonalis' which means 'across'.
  • Historically, it has been used in geometry to describe lines that connect non-adjacent corners.
  • The prefix 'dia-' generally means 'through' or 'across', indicating the movement between points.

Mathematics

  • In a square or rectangle, there are two diagonals that bisect (cut in half) each other.
  • Diagonals are important for calculating properties like the area in geometry.
  • Triangles can also have diagonally drawn lines to form different types of angles in geometric studies.

Art

  • Many famous artists use diagonal lines to create perspective and depth in their works.
  • In design, diagonals can guide the viewer’s eye and make compositions more dynamic.
  • Vanishing points in perspective art utilize diagonals for realism, leading to a focal point.

Sports

  • In sports like basketball, players often move diagonally across the court to evade opponents.
  • Diagonal movement is crucial in many sports for strategy, creating angles for passes, and scoring.
  • Coaching techniques often emphasize diagonal runs to optimize team formations.

Cultural References

  • Diagonal patterns have been featured in various fashion trends, becoming symbols of avant-garde styles.
  • In literature, diagonal patterns are sometimes used metaphorically to represent life choices or paths taken.
  • Cultural artwork often incorporates diagonal designs to signify movement, transition, or change.

Translations

Translations of the word "diagonally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diagonalmente

🇮🇳 तिरछे

🇩🇪 diagonal

🇮🇩 secara diagonal

🇺🇦 по діагоналі

🇵🇱 po przekątnej

🇯🇵 斜めに (ななめに)

🇫🇷 diagonalement

🇪🇸 diagonalmente

🇹🇷 diyagonal olarak

🇰🇷 대각선으로 (daegakseon-euro)

🇸🇦 بشكل مائل

🇨🇿 diagonálně

🇸🇰 diagonálne

🇨🇳 对角地 (duìjiǎo de)

🇸🇮 diagonalno

🇮🇸 á ská

🇰🇿 диагональ бойынша

🇬🇪 დიაგონალურად

🇦🇿 diqonal olaraq

🇲🇽 diagonalmente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,157, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.