Interval: meaning, definitions and examples
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interval
[ˈɪntərvəl ]
Definitions
mathematical
An interval is a set of real numbers with the property that any number that lies between two numbers in the set is also included in the set. Intervals can be open (not including the endpoints), closed (including the endpoints), or half-open (including one endpoint but not the other).
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| interval |
Used to describe a period of time between events or a physical space between objects. It's often used in contexts like scheduling, time management, and measurements.
|
| range |
Used to refer to the distance between the lowest and highest points in a set of data, capabilities, or choices. Commonly used in contexts like mathematics, data analysis, and descriptions of variety.
|
| span |
Used to describe the full reach or length of something, especially in terms of time or space. Often used in historical contexts, personal achievements, and architectural measurements.
|
| scope |
Used to indicate the extent or range of a subject covered by a book, program, discussion, etc. Frequently used in academic, project management, and work-related contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- The interval (0, 1) includes all real numbers between 0 and 1, but not 0 and 1 themselves.
- The interval [2, 5] includes all real numbers from 2 to 5, including 2 and 5.
time
An interval refers to a period of time between two specified points or events. It can be a short interval, like a few minutes, or a longer interval, like a decade.
Examples of usage
- There was a brief interval between the two acts of the play.
- The intervals between meals are important for digestion.
music
In music theory, an interval is the difference in pitch between two notes. Intervals can be classified as major, minor, perfect, augmented, or diminished, depending on the number of half steps they contain.
Examples of usage
- The interval between C and E is a major third.
- The song uses a variety of intervals to create tension and resolution.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'intervallum,' meaning 'a space between.'
- In medieval times, it was used to describe breaks during activities or performances.
- It entered the English language in the 14th century, slowly expanding its use in various contexts.
Mathematics
- In math, an interval represents a range of numbers, such as all numbers between 1 and 5.
- There are different types of intervals, including open (not including the endpoints) and closed (including the endpoints).
- Intervals are crucial in calculus for defining continuity and limits.
Music
- In music, an interval refers to the distance between two pitches, like the difference in sound when you play two notes.
- Intervals can describe harmony and melody, impacting the emotion of a piece.
- Famous intervals include the perfect fifth and major third, foundational for many musical scales.
Theater and Performance
- In plays or concerts, an interval is a break during the performance, allowing audiences to rest or socialize.
- Traditionally, intervals last around 10 to 20 minutes to give time for refreshments and conversation.
- Intervals can enhance the overall experience by building anticipation for the second act.
Health and Fitness
- In training, interval exercises alternate between high-intensity bursts and lower-intensity recovery, boosting endurance.
- Research shows that interval training can be more effective than steady-state workouts for improving cardiovascular fitness.
- It's a common method in group classes, making workouts more engaging and dynamic.
Translations
Translations of the word "interval" in other languages:
🇵🇹 intervalo
🇮🇳 अंतराल
🇩🇪 Intervall
🇮🇩 interval
🇺🇦 інтервал
🇵🇱 interwał
🇯🇵 間隔 (かんかく)
🇫🇷 intervalle
🇪🇸 intervalo
🇹🇷 aralık
🇰🇷 간격 (gan-gyeok)
🇸🇦 فترة
🇨🇿 interval
🇸🇰 interval
🇨🇳 间隔 (jiàngé)
🇸🇮 interval
🇮🇸 bil
🇰🇿 аралық
🇬🇪 ინტერვალი
🇦🇿 interval
🇲🇽 intervalo