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Straight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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straight

[streɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

hair

Extending or moving uniformly in one direction only; without a curve or bend.

Synonyms

direct, even, level.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
straight

Refers to something not bent or curved. It can also mean being honest and straightforward.

  • Draw a straight line.
  • She gave me a straight answer.
direct

Used when something goes without deviation or when communication is straightforward and clear.

  • Take the direct route to the city.
  • He was very direct in his criticism.
level

Describes something flat and at the same height throughout. It can also refer to the amount or degree of something.

  • Make sure the picture is level.
  • Her stress level is quite high.
even

Describes something flat or equal without bumps or irregularities. It can also describe equal distribution or fairness.

  • The surface of the table is even.
  • They divided the money into even shares.

Examples of usage

  • My hair used to be curly, but now it's completely straight.
  • She has long, straight hair that shines in the sunlight.
Context #2 | Adverb

path

In a direct or undeviating course.

Synonyms

directly, immediately, straightaway.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
straight

Use 'straight' when you want to describe something that follows a direct line or path without deviation. It can also be used to describe someone who is honest and not lying.

  • Go straight down this road and you'll find the building on your left.
  • She's very straight with her opinions; you always know what she thinks.
directly

Use 'directly' when you want to emphasize doing something in a clear, straightforward manner without any intermediaries or delays. It often implies immediacy.

  • He spoke directly to the manager about his concerns.
  • We will send the package directly to your house.
immediately

Use 'immediately' to highlight that something should happen without any delay, at once. It is often used to convey urgency.

  • She asked him to leave the room immediately.
  • Call an ambulance immediately if you see someone have a heart attack.
straightaway

Use 'straightaway' mainly in British English to indicate doing something without hesitation or delay. It is informal and often used in everyday speech.

  • I'll do that straightaway.
  • He started his homework straightaway after school.

Examples of usage

  • He walked straight ahead until he reached the end of the path.
  • The road stretched straight as far as the eye could see.
Context #3 | Noun

poker

A poker hand containing five consecutive cards of the same suit.

Synonyms

consecutive, sequence, successive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
straight

This word is often used to describe something that is direct or without any deviation, in a more abstract sense, such as being straightforward.

  • I need straight answers to my questions
  • She went straight to the manager to resolve the issue
sequence

This word is best used to describe a specific order in which events, actions, or numbers follow one another and are related to each other.

  • The DNA sequence is essential for coding proteins
  • The magician performed a sequence of tricks
consecutive

This word is most often used when referring to events, numbers, or periods of time that follow one another in order without interruption.

  • She won the championship in three consecutive years
  • The team scored four consecutive goals
successive

This word is typically used to describe events, actions, or periods that come immediately one after the other, usually without any interruptions.

  • The town had five successive mayors from the same family
  • We will hold successive meetings over the next few weeks

Examples of usage

  • She won the round with a straight flush.
  • He was hoping for a straight, but ended up with a pair.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In geometry, a straight line is defined as the shortest distance between two points.
  • A straight angle measures exactly 180 degrees, forming a straight line.
  • The concept of straightness is fundamental in various fields, including design and architecture, where precision is key.

Psychology

  • The term 'straight' is often used in discussions about sexual orientation, indicating heterosexuality.
  • It can also refer to straightforward communication, where messages are clear and unambiguous.
  • Mindsets about being 'straight' can influence societal expectations and personal identity.

Pop Culture

  • In film and literature, 'straight' characters are often depicted as conventional or traditional, contrasting with more complex personalities.
  • The term is frequently used in comedy, where characters might exaggerate how 'straight' they are to create humorous situations.
  • Popular songs often play on the idea of 'straight' versus 'curvy', using metaphors for love and relationships.

Geography

  • Straight can refer to narrow water passages, known as straits, such as the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates Europe and Africa.
  • Geographical features like straight rivers are often a result of erosion and human activity, shaping their courses over time.
  • In navigation, sailing straight courses is essential for efficient travel and exploration.

Origin of 'straight'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'streht', which means 'not bent'.
  • Related words can include 'strait', which in another context means narrow or tight.
  • Historically, the term 'straight' has been used in various contexts, from describing paths to moral character.

The word 'straight' has origins in Old English, derived from the word 'streccan' meaning to stretch. Over time, it evolved to convey the meaning of not curved or bent. The usage of 'straight' has been prevalent in various languages and cultures to describe linear, undeviating, or honest characteristics. From hair to paths to poker hands, 'straight' continues to be a versatile term in modern language.

See also: straightaway, straightedge, straighten, straightened, straightening, straightforward, straightforwardness, straightness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,565, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.