Orthogonal: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in mathematical, statistical, or more technical contexts to denote things that are independent or at right angles to each other in multiple dimensions.

• In data analysis, the axes of a graph should be orthogonal to clearly show the relationships between variables

Often used in both everyday language and academic settings to describe lines that intersect to form right angles, especially in the context of physics, engineering, and geometry.

• He placed the book perpendicular to the shelf for better stability

Mainly used in geometric contexts to describe triangles or other shapes that have at least one 90-degree angle.

• The right-angled triangle is a fundamental shape in trigonometry

Commonly used in everyday language and basic geometry to describe a quarter turn or an angle that forms a perfect square corner.

• The carpenter cut the wood at a 90-degree angle to ensure the frame would be square

Used in mathematics or statistics to describe two lines or vectors that are at right angles to each other. Can also be used more figuratively to describe concepts or problems that are completely separate and do not overlap.

• The two principal components are orthogonal to each other, ensuring no redundancy in information.
• The tasks assigned to the team were orthogonal, meaning they could be handled independently.

Commonly used in general English to describe a person, country, or variable that is free from control or influence by others. In statistics, it refers to variables that do not affect one another.

• She has always been an independent thinker, making decisions based on her own values.
• In the experiment, the variables were considered independent, meaning changes in one did not impact the other.

Commonly used to describe things that have no connection or relationship to each other. Often used in everyday language and general contexts.

• Her comment was entirely unrelated to the topic we were discussing.
• The two incidents were unrelated, happening in different locations and times.

Used in statistics to describe two variables that do not show any linear relationship with each other. Often used in risk management and investment portfolio contexts.

• The returns on these two assets are uncorrelated, reducing overall portfolio risk.
• We observed that the data points were uncorrelated, implying no discernible pattern.