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Duality Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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duality

[duːˈælɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

philosophy

The quality or character of being twofold; dichotomy.

Synonyms

dichotomy, twoness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
duality

Use 'duality' when referring to having two parts or aspects, especially in philosophical or abstract discussions. It can be used to describe the existence of two contrasting or complementary elements within a single entity.

  • The duality of human nature is a common theme in literature.
  • She felt a sense of duality, caught between two worlds.
twoness

Use 'twoness' in more informal or poetic situations to emphasize the quality of being two or the state of being composed of two parts. It is less common in everyday language.

  • The twoness of the couple was evident in their matching outfits.
  • He often spoke about the spiritual twoness he felt within himself.
dichotomy

Use 'dichotomy' when describing a division or contrast between two things that are represented as being entirely different or opposite. It often indicates a sharp division.

  • There is a clear dichotomy between science and religion in this debate.
  • The dichotomy between rich and poor continues to widen.

Examples of usage

  • Duality is a fundamental concept in philosophy, representing the idea of two separate but interrelated entities.
  • The duality of good and evil is a common theme in many philosophical discussions.
Context #2 | Noun

physics

The theory that the universe is composed of two basic, opposed substances.

Synonyms

contradiction, opposition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
duality

Also used in mathematics and philosophy to describe dual aspects of a concept or system. Mentioned twice, it indicates a repetitive emphasis on its importance in certain fields.

  • The duality of particle and wave behavior in physics is quite intriguing.
  • In literature, duality often provides a deeper understanding of a character's conflict.
opposition

Used to describe resistance or dissent, especially in a political context or when describing a stance against something. It emphasizes active resistance or contrast.

  • The new policy faced strong opposition from the public.
  • There is significant opposition to the proposed changes in the law.
contradiction

Refers to a situation where two or more facts, statements, or actions are opposed to each other and cannot both be true at the same time. Often used to highlight inconsistency or logical conflict.

  • There's a contradiction between his actions and his words.
  • The witness's testimony was full of contradictions.

Examples of usage

  • The concept of duality in physics suggests that light behaves as both a wave and a particle.
  • Quantum mechanics introduces the idea of wave-particle duality, challenging traditional notions of matter.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • The concept often explores the relationship between mind and body, suggesting that both exist in a unique interaction.
  • Famed philosophers like Descartes discussed duality in the context of the separation between thought and physical existence.

Science

  • In physics, wave-particle duality describes how light can behave as both a particle and a wave, depending on how it is observed.
  • Quantum mechanics introduces the idea that particles can exist in multiple states or locations at once, a form of duality in nature.

Literature

  • Many classic novels explore duality through characters with conflicting desires or moral dilemmas, highlighting the complexity of human nature.
  • The theme of duality can be seen in 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde', showcasing the struggle between good and evil within a single character.

Religion

  • In many spiritual traditions, duality is referenced as the conflict between good and evil, light and darkness.
  • Eastern philosophies often discuss duality in the form of yin and yang, where opposites maintain balance in the universe.

Psychology

  • In psychology, duality may refer to the concept of cognitive dissonance, where a person experiences conflicting thoughts and beliefs.
  • The idea of having an 'inner critic' and an 'inner friend' demonstrates an individual's internal duality in processing emotions and thoughts.

Origin of 'duality'

The word 'duality' originated from the Latin word 'dualis,' meaning 'of two,' and has been used in various fields such as philosophy, physics, and psychology to describe the concept of two separate but interconnected entities. The idea of duality has been a recurring theme in ancient and modern philosophical debates, exploring the relationship between opposing forces and the balance between them.

See also: dual.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,262, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.