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Obliqueness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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obliqueness

[əˈblɪk.nəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

abstract quality

Obliqueness refers to the quality of being indirect or slanted, both literally and figuratively. In literature and communication, it may describe something that is not straightforward or that suggests something indirectly.

Synonyms

deviation, indirectness, insinuation, slant.

Examples of usage

  • The obliqueness of his argument made it hard to understand.
  • She preferred the obliqueness in her writing to straightforward declarations.
  • The painting's obliqueness invites viewers to interpret its meaning themselves.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

In geometry, obliqueness can describe angles that are not right angles, indicating a form of slant or deviation from perpendicularity. This term is often used in describing the properties of various geometric figures.

Synonyms

angle, slant, tilt.

Examples of usage

  • The obliqueness of the triangle's angles is what classifies it as obtuse.
  • Understanding the obliqueness of lines in geometry is crucial for solving problems.
  • Obliqueness can lead to interesting results in trigonometric calculations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often use obliqueness in narrative to create suspense, leading readers through indirect clues.
  • In poetry, being oblique can evoke deeper emotions by suggesting rather than stating outright, enriching the reader's interpretation.
  • Famous authors, like James Joyce, often employ oblique references that challenge readers to think critically and find hidden meanings.

Psychology

  • Obliqueness in communication can lead to misunderstandings, as people may interpret meanings in various ways.
  • Indirect communication is often connected to cultural contexts, where some societies prefer subtlety over directness.
  • Research shows that oblique cues can enhance creativity, encouraging individuals to think outside the box.

Art

  • Many artworks incorporate oblique perspectives, offering viewers a unique angle that challenges traditional viewpoints.
  • In modern abstract art, obliqueness is often celebrated, allowing for personal interpretation rather than straightforward representation.
  • Artists like Piet Mondrian utilized obliqueness to reflect complexity through simple forms, encouraging deeper visual exploration.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often use oblique storylines where the truth is slowly revealed, keeping audiences engaged and guessing.
  • In music, lyrics may be deliberately oblique, making listeners reflect on personal experiences or societal issues.
  • Popular TV shows sometimes portray characters with oblique motivations, adding depth and unpredictability to their arcs.

Origin of 'obliqueness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'obliquus', meaning 'slanting' or 'deviating from the straight'.
  • In medieval times, 'oblique' was used in geometry to describe angles that are not right angles.
  • The addition of '-ness' creates a noun form that signifies the state or quality of being oblique.

The word 'obliqueness' originated in Middle English around the late 14th century, derived from the Latin 'obliquus,' which means 'slanting, sideways, or indirect.' It reflects the combination of the prefix 'ob-' meaning 'against' or 'in the way,' and 'liquus,' meaning 'liquid' or 'flowing.' The term evolved to describe not just physical angles but also figurative senses associated with indirectness or a lack of straightforwardness in behavior or speech. This duality of meaning showcases the richness of the term as it has developed across different contexts, making it relevant in both mathematical and literary discussions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,074, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.