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Threefold Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”บ
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threefold

[หˆฮธriหfษ™สŠld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in mathematics

Consisting of three parts or elements; three times as much or as many.

Synonyms

three times, three-way, triple.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
threefold

Appropriate for formal or academic settings to describe something increased or multiplied by three.

  • The company reported a threefold increase in profits.
  • This new method is threefold more effective than the previous one.
triple

Common in both everyday and technical language to describe threefold quantity or something multiplied by three, especially in casual or sports contexts.

  • She scored a triple in the basketball game.
  • They experienced a triple increase in their income this year.
three times

Suitable for everyday or general use to indicate something happening or done three occurrences.

  • I have watched that movie three times.
  • She called him three times before he answered.
three-way

Used when referring to something involving three parts, options, or participants, often in technical, mechanical, or competitive contexts.

  • The company is in a three-way partnership with two other firms.
  • There is a three-way tie in the competition.

Examples of usage

  • The threefold increase in sales was attributed to the new marketing strategy.
  • The triangle is a threefold shape with three sides and three angles.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a threefold manner

In three parts or elements; three times.

Synonyms

three times, three-way, triple.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
threefold

Use when describing something that has increased or consists of three parts. It is often used in formal or technical contexts.

  • The company's revenue has increased threefold since last year
  • The project has a threefold objective: to educate, engage, and empower
triple

Use for highlighting that something is three times larger, more intense, or more numerous. It can describe quantities, actions, or even sports events.

  • We need a triple helping of that dessert
  • He made a triple jump in the track meet
three times

Use for casual contexts to specify that something happened or is done three instances. It is clear and straightforward for everyday conversation.

  • I've told you three times to clean your room
  • She called me three times this morning
three-way

Use mostly in contexts where something involves or is divided among three people or groups. It can also refer to objects or mechanisms with three functions or connections.

  • The prize was split in a three-way tie
  • They had a three-way conference call to discuss the project

Examples of usage

  • The team divided the tasks threefold to improve efficiency.
  • The profits increased threefold after the company expanded overseas.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, 'threefold' is often used to describe an operation that triples a quantity, solidifying the concept of multiplication.
  • The term can be applied in geometry, such as when describing shapes that have three dimensions.

Literature

  • The concept of triads, often related to 'threefold', appears in various literary works, like the three witches in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'.
  • Triads can symbolize important themes or moral lessons, commonly found in storytelling, emphasizing balance and completeness.

Psychology

  • In psychology, models often represent concepts in threes to make them easier to understand; itโ€™s called the 'rule of three'.
  • This approach can help with memory retention and creativity, as our brains find patterns in triads more engaging.

Pop Culture

  • Trilogies are a popular format in film and literature, often reflecting the 'threefold' structure, with a beginning, middle, and end.
  • Iconic bands often create albums or hits in threes, playing into audiences' affinity for triads, such as the famous trio of the Beatles.

Origin of 'threefold'

Main points about word origin

  • The term has roots in Old English, combining 'three' (the number) with 'fold', which means to bend or multiply.
  • In early texts, the word was often used in religious contexts to describe concepts that come in threes, like the Holy Trinity in Christianity.

The word 'threefold' dates back to the 12th century, derived from Middle English 'threfold', which combines 'three' and 'fold'. It has been used throughout history in various contexts to signify a tripling or tripartite nature. The concept of threefoldness has significance in mathematics, philosophy, and spirituality.

See also: thirteen, three, threesome.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,342, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.