Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Dual: meaning, definitions and examples

⚖️
Add to dictionary

dual

 

[ˈdjuːəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in mathematics

Relating to or denoting a system of numbers or quantities containing two elements.

Synonyms

binary, two-fold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
dual

Used when referring to two parts, elements, or aspects that work together or are connected in some way.

  • She holds dual citizenship in Canada and the US.
  • The car has a dual exhaust system for better performance.
binary

Applicable in situations involving two distinct parts or a system based on two options, often used in technical and scientific contexts.

  • Computers operate using binary code.
  • The study explored binary gender categories.
two-fold

Best used to describe something that has two aspects or parts, often implying an increase or a combination of two factors.

  • The benefits of the new policy are two-fold: economic growth and job creation.
  • Her responsibilities in the project were two-fold: managing the team and handling customer communication.

Examples of usage

  • The dual nature of prime numbers is a fundamental concept in number theory.
  • Binary code is a dual system that uses only two symbols, typically 0 and 1.
Context #2 | Noun

in theology

A theology of dualism postulating two equal and opposing deities, forces, or principles.

Synonyms

duality, opposition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
dual

Used to describe something that has two different parts or aspects. It is often used in technical or formal contexts.

  • The machine has a dual function, acting both as a printer and a scanner.
  • She has dual citizenship, with passports from both France and Canada.
duality

Used to express the presence of two opposing or contrasting aspects within a single entity. Often used in philosophical, artistic, or psychological contexts.

  • The theme of duality is explored in many of his paintings, showing the conflict between good and evil.
  • Quantum mechanics often deals with the duality of particles behaving both as waves and as solid matter.
opposition

Describes a state of being against or contrasting with something. It typically has a connotation of conflict or resistance. Used in social, political, or competitive contexts.

  • The proposal met with strong opposition from environmental groups.
  • In soccer, one team's offense is always in direct opposition to the other team's defense.

Examples of usage

  • The concept of dual in theology is often associated with the struggle between good and evil.
  • Zoroastrianism is a religion that embraces the dual of light and darkness.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'dual' originates from the Latin word 'dualis,' which means 'twofold' or 'double.'
  • It first entered the English language in the mid-14th century, during a time of significant linguistic development.

Mathematics

  • In geometry, 'dual' can refer to a dual shape, where properties of one shape are inverted in another, like vertices and faces in polyhedra.
  • In linear algebra, the concept of duality allows transforming problems into simpler forms, facilitating easier solutions.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'dual' is frequently used in video games to describe characters that can switch between two forms, adding depth to the gameplay.
  • In film, duality is a common theme, exploring characters with two contrasting identities, such as in movies like 'Fight Club' and 'The Prestige.'

Psychology

  • The concept of duality is explored in psychology, particularly in theories that discuss the conscious and unconscious mind.
  • Cognitive dissonance theory illustrates how individuals juggle dual beliefs or attitudes that conflict with each other, impacting decision-making.

Education

  • In education systems, a 'dual language program' helps students learn in two languages, promoting bilingualism and cultural exchange.
  • The dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college courses, bridging the gap between secondary and higher education.

Translations

Translations of the word "dual" in other languages:

🇵🇹 duplo

🇮🇳 द्वैध

🇩🇪 doppelt

🇮🇩 ganda

🇺🇦 подвійний

🇵🇱 podwójny

🇯🇵 二重

🇫🇷 double

🇪🇸 doble

🇹🇷 çift

🇰🇷 이중의

🇸🇦 مزدوج

🇨🇿 dvojitý

🇸🇰 dvojitý

🇨🇳 双重

🇸🇮 dvojni

🇮🇸 tvískiptur

🇰🇿 екі еселенген

🇬🇪 ორმაგი

🇦🇿 ikiqat

🇲🇽 doble

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,688, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.