Linearly: meaning, definitions and examples

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linearly

 

[ˈlɪnɪərli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

mathematics, programming

Linearly refers to a relationship or behavior that follows a straight line in a linear function. In mathematics, a linear relationship indicates that one variable changes at a constant rate with another variable. This concept applies in various fields, including algebra and calculus, to describe functions that can be represented in the form of a straight line on a graph. Linearly can also refer to processes or changes that occur in a straight progression rather than in an exponential or more complex manner.

Synonyms

directly, straightforwardly, uniformly.

Examples of usage

  • The data points increase linearly on the graph.
  • The function behaves linearly between the specified limits.
  • The increase in sales was linear over the past year.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In math, linear equations show a straight line when graphed on a coordinate plane, with a constant slope.
  • The concept of linearity helps us understand relationships between variables, such as speed and distance.
  • Linear functions are foundational in algebra and are used to model real-world situations like budgeting or speed.

Philosophy

  • Linear thinking is often contrasted with lateral thinking, which involves more creativity and non-traditional approaches.
  • Some philosophical theories propose that time is experienced linearly, with a clear past, present, and future.
  • Linear narratives in storytelling help convey events in a sequence, making it easier for audiences to follow and understand.

Science

  • In physics, the principle of linear motion describes how objects move in a straight line at constant speeds.
  • Linear modeling in science is used to predict outcomes based on direct relationships, such as the effect of temperature on pressure in gases.
  • The linear model of genetics explains traits in offspring as inherited in a straightforward manner from parents.

Computing

  • In programming, linear data structures like arrays and lists store elements in a sequential order for easy access.
  • Algorithms that operate in linear time are efficient, processing data proportional to the input size.
  • Linear regression is a statistical method used in machine learning to predict outcomes based on input features.

Culture

  • Linear storytelling is prevalent in traditional literature, where narratives unfold consecutively, unlike non-linear tales that jump around.
  • Many films utilize linear plots to guide viewers through a coherent and engaging story without confusion.
  • Art movements in history, like Realism, often represent subjects in a straightforward, unembellished manner, aligning with linear principles.

Translations

Translations of the word "linearly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 linearmente

🇮🇳 रेखीय रूप से

🇩🇪 linear

🇮🇩 secara linier

🇺🇦 лінійно

🇵🇱 liniowo

🇯🇵 線形で

🇫🇷 linéairement

🇪🇸 linealmente

🇹🇷 doğrusal olarak

🇰🇷 선형적으로

🇸🇦 خطياً

🇨🇿 lineárně

🇸🇰 lineárne

🇨🇳 线性地

🇸🇮 linearno

🇮🇸 línulega

🇰🇿 сызықтық түрде

🇬🇪 ლინარულად

🇦🇿 xətti şəkildə

🇲🇽 linealmente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,120, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.