Triangulation: meaning, definitions and examples

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triangulation

 

[ traɪˌæŋɡjʊˈleɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

surveying

Triangulation is a method used in surveying to determine the location of a point by measuring angles to it from known points at either end of a fixed baseline.

Synonyms

geodetic technique, surveying method

Examples of usage

  • Triangulation is commonly used in cartography to create accurate maps.
  • In geodesy, triangulation is essential for measuring large distances on the Earth's surface.
Context #2 | Noun

communication

Triangulation refers to a communication strategy where a person avoids direct communication by using a third person as a mediator.

Synonyms

indirect communication, mediation

Examples of usage

  • Instead of discussing the issue directly, she resorted to triangulation by talking to a mutual friend.
Context #3 | Noun

psychology

In psychology, triangulation is a dynamic involving three people where one person plays the role of mediator between the other two, often leading to conflict.

Synonyms

interpersonal conflict, three-person dynamic

Examples of usage

  • The concept of triangulation is frequently observed in dysfunctional family dynamics.

Translations

Translations of the word "triangulation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 triangulação

🇮🇳 त्रिकोणमिति

🇩🇪 Triangulation

🇮🇩 triangulasi

🇺🇦 тріангуляція

🇵🇱 triangulacja

🇯🇵 三角測量 (さんかくそくりょう)

🇫🇷 triangulation

🇪🇸 triangulación

🇹🇷 triangülasyon

🇰🇷 삼각 측량 (삼각 측량)

🇸🇦 التثليث

🇨🇿 triangulace

🇸🇰 triangulácia

🇨🇳 三角测量 (sānjiǎo cèliáng)

🇸🇮 triangulacija

🇮🇸 þríhyrningsmæling

🇰🇿 триангуляция

🇬🇪 ტრიანგულაცია

🇦🇿 triyangulyasiya

🇲🇽 triangulación

Etymology

The word 'triangulation' originated from the Latin word 'triangulus', which means 'having three angles'. The concept of triangulation has been used for centuries in various fields such as surveying, communication, and psychology. The method of triangulation in surveying dates back to ancient times when astronomers and geographers used it to measure distances and map out territories. In modern times, the term 'triangulation' has also been adopted in communication theory and psychology to describe complex interactions involving three individuals. Overall, triangulation has become a fundamental concept in multiple disciplines for determining location, facilitating communication, and understanding interpersonal dynamics.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,707, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.