anticlockwise
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective: In the direction opposite to the rotation of the hands of a clock.
- Adverb: In a direction opposite to the direction in which the hands of a clock move.
Usage
- The word anticlockwise describes rotational or circular movement. It is the standard term used in British English. The equivalent term in American English is "counterclockwise."
- As an adjective, it describes the nature of a movement or direction.
- Example: Please follow the anticlockwise path.
- As an adverb, it describes how an action is performed.
- Example: Turn the knob anticlockwise to open it.
Examples
- Adjective:
- The dancers formed an anticlockwise circle.
- The diagram shows an anticlockwise rotation of 90 degrees.
- Adverb:
- To loosen the screw, you must turn it anticlockwise.
- The water drains anticlockwise in the southern hemisphere.
Advanced Usage
- Scientific/Technical Context: Used in physics, engineering, and mathematics to describe the direction of torque, angular velocity, or coordinate rotation. It is often defined by the right-hand rule.
- Example: A negative angular velocity indicates anticlockwise rotation.
Variants and Related Words
- Counterclockwise (adj/adv): The American English equivalent of anticlockwise. The meaning is identical.
- Clockwise (adj/adv): The direct opposite, meaning in the direction of the hands of a clock.
Synonyms
- Counterclockwise (US English)
- Widdershins (archaic/literary, meaning "in a direction contrary to the sun's course")
Antonyms
- Clockwise
- Deasil (archaic, meaning "in the direction of the sun's course")
Related Phrases
- In an anticlockwise direction: A more formal or explicit way to state the manner of movement.
- Example: Participants must walk in an anticlockwise direction around the monument.
Adjective
- in the direction opposite to the rotation of the hands of a clock
Adverb
- in a direction opposite to the direction in which the hands of a clock move
- please move counterclockwise in a circle!