Projection Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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projection

[prəˈdʒɛkʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematical

The action of projecting a figure or a three-dimensional object onto a two-dimensional surface.

Synonyms

mapping, representation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
projection

This is a duplicate; see the first 'projection' entry for context and examples.

representation

Appropriate in contexts involving the depiction or portrayal of something visually, through art, or symbolically, and also in legal or political contexts referring to the act of speaking or acting on behalf of someone.

  • The artist's representation of the natural landscape was stunning.
  • Our legal representation will ensure that we get a fair trial.
mapping

Best used in geography, technology, or any context involving the creation of a plan or diagram showing the position of things.

  • The mapping software helps in planning the fastest route to your destination.
  • Students worked on mapping the historical development of their city.

Examples of usage

  • The projection of a cube onto a plane results in a square.
  • In cartography, projection is used to depict the Earth's surface on a flat map.
Context #2 | Noun

psychological

The unconscious transfer of one's own desires or emotions to another person.

Synonyms

displacement, transference.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
projection

This word may have been repeated accidentally. If the meaning parallels the previous 'projection', it should follow similar contexts related to presenting or depicting as well as psychological attribution.

transference

In psychotherapy, this refers to the process whereby emotions originally associated with one person, such as a parent, are unconsciously redirected to another person, especially the therapist. It focuses on interpersonal relations where one projects feelings related to important people in their past onto another person.

  • The patient exhibited transference by treating the therapist as if she were his mother.
  • Transference can complicate the therapeutic process if not addressed.
displacement

In psychology, 'displacement' is when someone redirects emotions or feelings (often negative ones) from the original source of distress to a safer or more acceptable substitute target. In other contexts, it refers to the moving or shifting of something from its usual place or position.

  • After a stressful day at work, he took out his anger on his family, a clear case of displacement.
  • The displacement of the residents due to the flood was overwhelming.

Examples of usage

  • Her projection of anger onto her coworker was a reflection of her own unresolved issues.
  • Projection is a defense mechanism that helps individuals cope with difficult emotions.
Context #3 | Noun

cinematic

The showing of a movie on a screen.

Synonyms

display, screening.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
projection

Use this word to talk about something being shown onto a surface, often related to images, movies, data, or light. It's also common in business contexts to refer to estimates or forecasts.

  • The projection of the movie on the wall was very clear
  • According to the sales projection, our profits should increase next quarter
screening

This would be used specifically for showing a film or video to an audience. It's also used in health contexts for conducting tests to identify conditions or diseases.

  • We're having a special screening of the new documentary tonight
  • The hospital is offering free health screenings this weekend
display

This word is used when something is being shown prominently or in a way that is meant to be seen, like an exhibit, a show, or a screen showing information.

  • The museum has an impressive display of ancient artifacts
  • The store window display attracted a lot of customers

Examples of usage

  • The projection of the film on the big screen was a thrilling experience for the audience.
  • Modern theaters use digital projection technology for high-quality viewing.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Early projection devices were called magic lanterns, used in the 17th century to display images from glass slides.
  • In modern times, digital projectors have replaced older technologies, making projections clearer and more vibrant.

Psychology

  • In psychology, projection refers to a defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own thoughts or feelings to others.
  • This can help people avoid confronting uncomfortable feelings, showcasing how we interpret our experiences.

Art

  • Artists have used projections for decades to help map out their work on large canvases, allowing for more accurate proportions.
  • Light projections in contemporary art installations create immersive experiences, blending visual technology with creativity.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'projection' is often used in film critiques, referencing how characters or themes are presented to the audience.
  • In video games, projections enhance storytelling by creating immersive worlds players can explore.

Origin of 'projection'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'projectio', meaning 'to throw forward'.
  • It has been used in English since the early 16th century, indicating a shift from physical to abstract meanings.

The word 'projection' originated from the Latin word 'projectio,' which means a throwing forward. It has been used in various fields such as mathematics, psychology, and cinema. The concept of projection has evolved over time to encompass different meanings, from the mathematical transformation of shapes to the psychological defense mechanism. The word has become a versatile term with applications in multiple disciplines.


See also: project, projectable, projectile, projecting, projectors, projects.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,858, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.