Dimensions: meaning, definitions and examples

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dimensions

[dɪˈmɛnʃənz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mathematics

Dimensions refer to the measurements of an object in terms of length, width, and height. In mathematics, dimensions can also refer to the number of coordinates needed to specify a point in space.

Synonyms

extent, measurements, size.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dimensions	Used often in technical and scientific contexts to describe the measurable attributes of an object or space, such as height, width, and depth. Typically refers to physical properties. The dimensions of the room are 20 feet by 15 feet Engineers need to know the exact dimensions of the component
size	A more general and less formal term used to describe how big or small something is. Suitable for everyday conversation and non-technical contexts. What size shirt do you wear? The size of the dog was surprising
measurements	Refers to the act of measuring or the specific values obtained from measuring something. Common in contexts where precision is important. The tailor took my measurements for the suit Accurate measurements are essential in construction
extent	Best used to describe the degree or scope of something. It can refer to both physical space and abstract ideas, such as influence or damage. The extent of the damage was significant The forest fire spread over a large extent

Examples of usage

The cube has three dimensions - length, width, and height.
The dimensions of the room are 10 feet by 12 feet.
Understanding the dimensions of a shape is essential in geometry.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

physics

In physics, dimensions can refer to the physical quantities that are used to describe the nature of a system. These dimensions can include mass, time, and electric charge.

Synonyms

aspects, parameters, variables.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dimensions	Use when referring to measurable extents of size, depth, or scope in a physical sense or metaphorically. This often implies a 3D characteristic. The dimensions of the room are 10 by 12 feet. This issue has many dimensions that we need to explore.
parameters	Use when specifying fixed boundaries or limits, especially in mathematical or technical contexts. The parameters of the experiment must be clearly defined. We need to stay within the financial parameters set by management.
aspects	Use when referring to parts or features of a situation, problem, or subject. This term is often used in discussions that involve multifaceted analysis. We need to consider all aspects of the project before making a decision. One aspect of her character that I admire is her honesty.
variables	Use when referring to elements or factors that can change or vary, often used in scientific, mathematical, or statistical contexts. The experiment tested how different variables, such as temperature and humidity, affected the outcome. Several variables must be taken into account when making this decision.

Examples of usage

The dimensions of the equation need to be consistent for it to be valid.
Time is considered one of the fundamental dimensions in physics.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

general

Dimensions can also refer to the aspects or perspectives through which something can be viewed or understood. It can represent layers of complexity or depth in a concept.

Synonyms

angles, aspects, facets.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dimensions	Use when discussing measurable extents, size, or scope of physical objects, space, or abstract concepts. The dimensions of the room are 10 by 12 feet. Her role in the company added a new dimension to marketing.
facets	Best used to talk about various sides or features of something complex, such as a problem, situation, or personality. The gem had multiple facets that sparkled in the light. Her personality has many fascinating facets.
angles	Appropriate for describing the space between two intersecting lines or surfaces. It can also be used metaphorically for different perspectives or approaches. The angles of the triangle add up to 180 degrees. Let's look at this problem from a different angle.
aspects	Suitable when referring to different parts or features of a whole, often used when considering complex situations or issues. One aspect of the project that concerns me is the budget. The cultural aspect of the show was fascinating.

Examples of usage

The issue has many dimensions that need to be considered.
His speech added a new dimension to the debate.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'dimensio', meaning 'measuring out'.
In English, it started being used in the sense of measurement around the late 14th century.
It has since evolved to describe not just physical measurements but also abstract ideas.

Science

In physics, dimensions can refer to the different aspects of space: usually 3D (length, width, height), but theories like string theory suggest up to 11 dimensions.
Mathematics also uses dimensions to describe vectors and shapes – for example, a line has 1 dimension, a square has 2, and a cube has 3.
In quantum mechanics, dimensions additionally describe the state of different particles, often leading to complex interpretations.

Culture

In literature and films, dimensions often refer to alternate realities or universes, such as in famous series like 'Doctor Strange' or 'Interstellar'.
The concept of parallel dimensions opens pathways for creativity, allowing storytellers to explore 'what if' scenarios.
Art can also play with dimensions, with 2D paintings creating the illusion of 3D depth to engage viewers.

Psychology

In psychological terms, dimensions can relate to understanding personality traits, which are assessed on multiple axes like extroversion and introversion.
The concept of emotional dimensions helps psychologists analyze how different feelings relate to one another.
Cognitive dimensions also play a role in how we perceive problems, with multidimensional thinking required for complex decision-making.

Technology

Computer graphics rely heavily on dimensions, with 3D modeling creating realistic visual effects for games and movies.
In data analysis, dimensions refer to different attributes or features used for deep insights and patterns.
Virtual reality experiences expand the dimensions of user experience, creating immersive environments that feel real.

Translations

Translations of the word "dimensions" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dimensões

🇮🇳 आयाम

🇩🇪 Dimensionen

🇮🇩 dimensi

🇺🇦 виміри

розміри
габарити

🇵🇱 wymiary

🇯🇵 寸法

規模
次元

🇫🇷 dimensions

🇪🇸 dimensiones

🇹🇷 boyutlar

🇰🇷 치수

🇸🇦 أبعاد

🇨🇿 rozměry

🇸🇰 rozmery

🇨🇳 尺寸

🇸🇮 dimenzije

🇮🇸 mál

🇰🇿 өлшемдер

🇬🇪 განზომილებები

🇦🇿 ölçülər

🇲🇽 dimensiones

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,727, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

...
2724 precisely
2725 margin
2726 chest
2727 dimensions
2728 discretion
2729 absorption
2730 catch
...