Linear: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to something that follows a straight line or has a sequential progression, especially in mathematics or physics.

• The graph shows a linear relationship between time and speed
• The storyline of the book is linear, moving from past to present without any flashbacks

Used in everyday language to describe something that does not bend or curve. Can also imply honesty or straightforwardness.

• Draw a straight line across the page
• He was very straight with his feedback

Appropriate for situations that involve straightforwardness or a lack of deviation, often related to communication or routes.

• He gave a direct answer to the question
• The route from the house to the office is the most direct one

Commonly used in scientific or technical discussions to describe motion or structures that are straight and follow perpendicular lines.

• The rectilinear motion of the pendulum is predictable
• The building’s design incorporates many rectilinear patterns

Used to describe something arranged in or extending along a straight line, or developments and processes that progress in sequential steps without deviation.

• The story had a linear progression from beginning to end
• The data was plotted on a linear graph

Used to describe something without bends or curves, or to describe honest and straightforward behavior.

• He drew a straight line on the paper
• She gave him a straight answer without hesitation

Often used to describe an approach or communication style that is straightforward, honest, and without detours or secondary steps.

• Her boss appreciated her direct communication style
• He took the most direct route to the city center

Commonly used in technical or scientific contexts to describe something consisting of straight lines or moving in a straight path.

• The robot's movements were entirely rectilinear
• The architect designed a rectilinear building

Used to describe something that progresses or develops in a straight line or sequential order.

• The relationship between the variables is linear, meaning as one increases, the other does too in a direct proportion.
• The teacher explained the concept of linear growth in the mathematics class.

Typically used in mathematics to describe a statement that asserts the equality of two expressions, often containing one or more variables.

• To solve the equation, you need to isolate the variable on one side.
• The quadratic equation has two solutions.

Used to describe a concise way of expressing information symbolically, often seen in mathematics, science, and engineering. It also can refer to a recipe or method for achieving something.

• The area of a rectangle can be calculated using the formula: length multiplied by width.
• He followed the tried-and-true formula for writing a successful novel.

In mathematics, it refers to a combination of symbols and operators that represent a value but does not assert equality. Can also refer to showing or manifesting feelings, ideas, etc.

• Simplify the algebraic expression before solving the problem.
• Her facial expression showed she was deeply moved by the speech.