Narrowness: meaning, definitions and examples

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narrowness

[ˈnær.oʊ.nəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

feeling of being narrow

The state or quality of being narrow in width or limited in extent. It can also refer to a lack of breadth or openness, both physically and metaphorically. Narrowness can manifest as a restricted perspective or a limited range of options.

Synonyms

constriction, restriction, tightness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
narrowness	Often used to describe limited width, space, or perspective. Can be applied to physical spaces as well as abstract concepts like viewpoints or understanding. The narrowness of the hallway made it difficult to move furniture. His narrowness of mind hindered open discussions.
constriction	Usually refers to something being made smaller or tighter, often in a limiting or suffocating way. This term can apply to physical objects or feelings of pressure and limitation. The constriction in her throat made it hard to breathe. The project faced constriction due to budget cuts.
tightness	Describes a condition of being firmly held, packed, or stretched without much room. Often used in physical contexts, but can also describe financial situations or emotions. The dress fit with a bit of tightness around the waist. He felt a tightness in his chest due to stress.
restriction	Refers to limitations or rules that control or reduce certain actions, movements, or freedoms. It can be used to describe legal, social, or physical limits. The city has placed a restriction on water usage. These diet restrictions are hard to follow.

Examples of usage

The narrowness of the hallway made it difficult for two people to pass by each other.
His narrowness of mind prevented him from considering alternative viewpoints.
She felt suffocated by the narrowness of her social circle.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

lack of tolerance or open-mindedness

A narrowness of attitude or perspective that is intolerant or close-minded. It often involves a reluctance to accept or consider ideas, beliefs, or people that are different from one's own.

Synonyms

bigotry, intolerance, narrow-mindedness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
narrowness	Repetitive; see first entry. The narrowness of the stream made it easy to cross
intolerance	Highlights a lack of willingness to tolerate views, beliefs, or behaviors that differ from one's own. Often used in discussions about societal issues. Carries a negative connotation. The intolerance in the workplace led to a very uncomfortable environment for employees
bigotry	Conveys a strong, unfair dislike or intolerance toward those who are different or hold different opinions. Often associated with racial, religious, or other forms of prejudice. Has a negative connotation. His bigotry against immigrants became evident during the heated discussion
narrow-mindedness	Describes a mentality that is not open to new ideas or different opinions. Similar to intolerance but often used to describe an individual rather than a broader issue. Negative in nature. Her narrow-mindedness prevented her from understanding other cultures

Examples of usage

The narrowness of his views on immigration made it difficult to have a productive conversation.
Her narrowness prevented her from appreciating the diversity of opinions within the group.
The narrowness of their religious beliefs led to conflicts with those who held different views.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'narrow' comes from Old English 'nearu', which means 'small' or 'confined'.
In Middle English, 'narrow' evolved to describe both physical and metaphorical limitations in breadth or scope.
The suffix '-ness' is used to turn an adjective into a noun, indicating a state or condition.

Psychology

Narrow thinking can limit creative problem-solving, as people may overlook broader perspectives.
Cognitive psychological research suggests that a narrow focus can be beneficial in high-stress situations, leading to better performance.
Narrowness in social interactions can lead to echo chambers where diverse opinions are not heard, impacting decision-making.

Cultural Perspectives

In some cultures, narrowness is associated with limitation and lack of freedom of expression, influencing art and literature.
Many artists use the concept of narrowness to symbolize struggles or constraints within their work, leading to deeper themes.
Culinary traditions vary in how 'narrow' might refer to specific types of dishes or ingredients, highlighting regional specialties.

Architecture

Narrowness in architecture can create unique designs, such as skinny houses or alleyways, maximizing small urban spaces.
Historically, narrow street designs were used for defense in fortified cities, limiting access for attackers.
Contemporary urban planning often seeks to balance narrow pathways with spacious communal areas for social interaction.

Science

In biology, a narrow ecological niche can make a species more vulnerable to environmental changes.
Physics studies often deal with narrow beams of light in optics, leading to advancements in imaging technologies.
Narrow-bandwidth signals in communication theory refer to a limited range of frequencies, impacting data transmission.

Translations

Translations of the word "narrowness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estreiteza

🇮🇳 संकीर्णता

🇩🇪 Enge

🇮🇩 kekurangan

🇺🇦 вузькість

🇵🇱 wąskość

🇯🇵 狭さ

🇫🇷 étroitesse

🇪🇸 estrechez

🇹🇷 darlık

🇰🇷 좁음

🇸🇦 ضيق

🇨🇿 úzkost

🇸🇰 úzkosť

🇨🇳 狭窄

🇸🇮 ozkost

🇮🇸 þrengsli

🇰🇿 тарлық

🇬🇪 ვიწროება

🇦🇿 daralma

🇲🇽 estrechez

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,364, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19361 glaciation
19362 unyielding
19363 overcast
19364 narrowness
19365 conflicted
19366 lotion
19367 tamed
...