Intervals Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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intervals

[หˆษชntษ™rvษ™lz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

Intervals are sets of numbers between two given numbers. They can be open (not including the endpoints), closed (including the endpoints), half-open (including one endpoint but not the other), or half-closed (including one endpoint but not the other).

Synonyms

range, segment, span.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intervals

Use 'intervals' when talking about time periods or spaces between events or things. This word is often used in scheduling, music, and mathematics.

  • We should take short intervals during our study session to stay focused.
  • The concert will have two intervals between the three sets.
range

Use 'range' when talking about the extent or scope of something, often in a continuous sequence. It is common in discussions about prices, ages, temperatures, and various statistics.

  • The price range for these shoes is between $50 and $150.
  • The age range for the participants is 18 to 25 years.
span

Use 'span' when talking about the full extent or duration between two points, often in time or distance. It is also used to indicate how long something lasts or the physical distance something covers.

  • Her career spanned over three decades.
  • The bridge has a span of 500 meters.
segment

Use 'segment' when referring to a part of a whole, usually a distinct section of something larger. This word is common in geometry, marketing, and various sciences.

  • This segment of the market prefers eco-friendly products.
  • The documentary is divided into several segments.

Examples of usage

  • An interval from 1 to 5 would include 1 but not 5.
  • The interval (2, 7] includes all numbers from 2 to 7 except for 2.
  • The interval [4, 9) includes all numbers from 4 to 9 except for 9.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Intervals in math refer to the range of numbers between two endpoints, like the numbers that are between 1 and 5.
  • In statistics, data intervals help summarize information, making it easier to understand patterns and trends.

Music

  • In music, an interval is the distance between two notes. For example, the leap from C to E is called a major third.
  • Intervals are foundational in creating melodies and harmonies, shaping how music sounds and feels.

Exercise & Fitness

  • Interval training involves alternating between periods of intense effort and rest, leading to improved fitness levels.
  • This type of training can boost metabolism and enhance endurance, making workouts more effective and efficient.

Linguistics

  • In linguistics, intervals can describe timings in speech, such as the pauses between words or sentences that affect communication.
  • Studying speech intervals helps in understanding rhythm and flow in spoken language, making it easier to learn new languages.

Philosophy

  • Philosophically, intervals can represent the space between moments in time, prompting discussions on the nature of existence and temporality.
  • The concept of intervals also leads to reflections on mindfulness, emphasizing the importance of appreciating each moment.

Origin of 'intervals'

The concept of intervals in mathematics dates back to ancient times, with early mathematicians using intervals to describe ranges of numbers. The formalization of intervals as sets came later, with contributions from mathematicians like Georg Cantor in the 19th century. Intervals play a crucial role in various branches of mathematics, such as calculus, analysis, and number theory.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,915, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.