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Distorted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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distorted

[dษชหˆstษ”หtษชd ]

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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'distorted'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'distorted' comes from the Latin word 'distortus', which means twisted or deformed. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe something that has been altered from its original state in a way that makes it difficult to recognize.

See also: distorter, distorting, distortion.

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.