counterclockwise
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- In the direction opposite to the rotation of the hands of a clock: Describing a circular motion that goes to the left if you imagine facing a traditional clock. This is also known as anticlockwise or left-handed rotation.
- Adverb:
- In a direction opposite to the direction in which the hands of a clock move: The manner of moving or turning in a leftward circular direction.
Examples of Usage
- Adjective:
- To open this valve, you must give it a counterclockwise turn.
- The diagram shows a counterclockwise rotation of 90 degrees.
- Adverb:
- "Please move counterclockwise in a circle!"
- The dancers spun counterclockwise around the pole.
Advanced Usage
- Scientific/Technical Context: In mathematics and physics, a counterclockwise rotation is often considered the positive direction for measuring angles in a standard coordinate plane.
- A positive angle of rotation is defined as counterclockwise from the positive x-axis.
Variants and Related Words
- Anticlockwise (adj/adv): A synonym, more commonly used in British English.
- Turn the knob anticlockwise to loosen it.
- Clockwise (adj/adv): The direct opposite, meaning in the direction of the clock's hands.
- Screw the lid on by turning it clockwise.
Synonyms
- Anticlockwise (adj/adv): (British English equivalent).
- Left-handed (adj): (Used informally or in specific contexts like describing the twist of a rope or a spiral).
Antonyms
- Clockwise (adj/adv): In the direction of the clock's hands.
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!