Dual: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.