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Undirected Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”„
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undirected

[หŒสŒndษชหˆrษ›ktษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

graph theory

Not having a direction or orientation; without a specified start or end point.

Synonyms

bidirectional, non-directed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
undirected

This is a repeat and is used in the context described above.

  • As stated, 'undirected' describes something not aimed in any particular direction.
  • Researchers collected data from an undirected sample of the population.
bidirectional

This term is suitable when describing something that operates or functions in two directions, commonly used in contexts of communication, roads, or systems.

  • The communication between the two devices is bidirectional.
  • A bidirectional road allows traffic to flow both ways.
non-directed

Similar to 'undirected', but slightly more formal and specific, often used in scientific or technical settings to signify a lack of specific direction or target.

  • The non-directed graph represents a network where all connections are equal.
  • Non-directed donors give organs without specifying the recipient.

Examples of usage

  • In an undirected graph, the edges do not have a direction associated with them.
  • The relationship between the two nodes is undirected, meaning it is bidirectional.
Context #2 | Adjective

general

Not guided or controlled; free from restrictions or limitations.

Synonyms

uncontrolled, unrestricted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
undirected

Used when something lacks direction or a specific course, often referring to efforts, actions, or communication.

  • Her undirected efforts made it challenging to achieve the project's goals
  • Their conversation was undirected and lacked focus
uncontrolled

Refers to something that is not regulated, restrained, or kept in check, often implying potential danger or chaos.

  • The uncontrolled fire spread quickly through the forest
  • His uncontrolled anger caused many problems
unrestricted

Used when something has no limitations or constraints, often in a positive sense, implying freedom and openness.

  • He enjoys unrestricted access to all company data
  • The unrestricted nature of the internet allows for free information exchange

Examples of usage

  • His undirected approach to life often led to unexpected adventures.
  • She enjoyed the undirected exploration of the new city.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In graph theory, an undirected graph consists of nodes connected without any specific direction, allowing connections to go both ways.
  • This concept is essential in understanding relationships in networks, as it simplifies modeling between entities.
  • The absence of direction in these graphs contrasts sharply with directed graphs, where edges have specific paths.

Physics

  • In mechanics, undirected forces may refer to those not aligned in a single direction, impacting a system in various ways.
  • Energy flow in undirected systems can create unpredictable outcomes due to the lack of control or vectors.
  • Studying undirected phenomena can lead to breakthroughs in understanding chaotic systems in nature.

Social Sciences

  • Undirected interaction in social networks can foster organic relationships, where people connect freely without predefined goals.
  • Anthropologists note that undirected behaviors in communities often lead to collaborative innovations, differing from strict hierarchies.
  • In communication, undirected dialogue allows for more open discussions, often yielding unexpected insights.

Technology

  • In programming, undirected data structures are often simpler to navigate, emphasizing loose connections over strict pathways.
  • Machine learning algorithms sometimes utilize undirected models to analyze relationships without predetermined directions.
  • The use of undirected protocols in networks can enhance flexibility, allowing for easier adjustments to changing conditions.

Origin of 'undirected'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'un-' (not) and 'directed' (guided or aimed), indicating a lack of direction.
  • It traces back to the Latin 'directus', meaning 'straightened or ordered', reflecting its inverse.
  • In modern usage, it first emerged significantly in the 20th century, especially in academic contexts.

The word 'undirected' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'direct'. It first appeared in the mid-17th century as part of the English language. Over time, it has been widely used in various fields such as mathematics, graph theory, and general language to describe concepts and ideas that lack a specific direction or guidance.

See also: bidirectional, direct, directability, directing, direction, directions, directive, directiveness, directives, directly, directness, director, directorial, directors, directory, indirect, misdirect, misdirection.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,316, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.