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Distorted: meaning, definitions and examples

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distorted

 

[dɪˈstɔːtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

sound

Having the sound, image, or shape of something changed in a way that makes it hard to recognize.

Synonyms

deformed, misshapen, twisted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distorted

Use when something is altered from its original form or appearance, often in a way that is unclear or misleading.

  • The artist created a painting of reality but with distorted shapes and colors.
  • Her voice was distorted by the poor phone connection.
misshapen

Best suited for mild and relatively minor irregularities in shape that can be temporary or not necessarily severe.

  • The cookies came out of the oven misshapen but still delicious.
  • The hat was misshapen after being stuffed in the suitcase.
twisted

Used for describing something that is physically contorted in a spiral or helical shape, often implying a more intentional or forceful action.

  • The metal rod was twisted into a spiral shape.
  • Her ankle was twisted after she fell on the uneven pavement.
deformed

Appropriate in situations where something has an abnormal shape that is typically more permanent and often due to a congenital condition or significant damage.

  • The sculpture was deformed after being mishandled during transportation.
  • His deformed hand made it difficult for him to write.

Examples of usage

  • The music sounded distorted coming from the old speakers.
  • His distorted reflection in the funhouse mirror made him look taller and thinner than he really was.
Context #2 | Verb

information

Presenting information in a way that is misleading or inaccurate.

Synonyms

alter, misrepresent, skew.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distorted

Use when something is twisted or out of shape, often in a way that is misleading or hard to recognize.

  • The mirror distorted his reflection, making him look much taller
  • Facts in the news report were distorted, causing confusion among the audience
misrepresent

Use when someone presents false information or gives a misleading impression, often intentionally. This has a negative connotation.

  • The company was accused of misrepresenting its financial status to attract investors
  • He felt that the article misrepresented his views on the subject
alter

Use when talking about making small changes or modifications to something.

  • She decided to alter her dress for the party
  • The software was altered to fix the bugs
skew

Use when something is tilted, has a bias, or is not straight; often used in statistical or data contexts. This can have a negative connotation when implying unfairness or bias.

  • The survey results were skewed by the leading questions
  • The camera angle skewed the perspective of the photograph

Examples of usage

  • The news report was distorted by the biased journalist.
  • She distorted the truth to protect her friend.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'distortus,' which means 'twisted' or 'crooked.'
  • It has been in use in the English language since the 14th century, originally describing physical changes.

Art

  • In art, distortion is often used to convey emotions or to make a deeper statement.
  • Famous artists like Pablo Picasso used distortion in their paintings to challenge perceptions of reality.

Psychology

  • Distorted perceptions can lead to misunderstandings in communication, affecting relationships and social interactions.
  • Cognitive distortions are common patterns of negative thinking that can impact mental health.

Technology

  • In sound engineering, distortion is an effect that modifies audio signals, usually to make them sound more edgy or intense.
  • Video distortion can occur during file compression, which affects the quality of what you see on screens.

Music

  • Guitarists often use distortion pedals to create a gritty sound that's popular in rock music.
  • The term 'distorted' in music can refer to the way notes are altered to evoke stronger emotions.

Translations

Translations of the word "distorted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 distorcido

🇮🇳 विकृत

🇩🇪 verzerrt

🇮🇩 terdistorsi

🇺🇦 спотворений

🇵🇱 zniekształcony

🇯🇵 歪んだ

🇫🇷 distordu

🇪🇸 distorsionado

🇹🇷 çarpık

🇰🇷 왜곡된

🇸🇦 مشوه

🇨🇿 zkreslený

🇸🇰 skreslený

🇨🇳 扭曲的

🇸🇮 popačen

🇮🇸 afskræmdur

🇰🇿 бұрмаланған

🇬🇪 დამახინჯებული

🇦🇿 təhrif olunmuş

🇲🇽 distorsionado

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,773 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.