elliptical

/i'liptikəl/

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The word "elliptical" is an adjective that can describe two main things: a shape and a style of communication.

Basic Meaning:

1. Shape: In geometry, "elliptical" refers to something that is shaped like an egg or an oval.

   • Example: "The track was elliptical, making it perfect for running."

2. Communication Style: When we talk about language, "elliptical" means that something is expressed in a very brief way. It often leaves out words that are understood or implied, which can make it hard to understand.

   • Example: "The conversation was elliptical, with many hints but not much detail."

Usage:

• When describing shapes, you can use "elliptical" to refer to anything that has an oval form.
• When discussing communication, you can say a statement is "elliptical" if it is short and may leave out important information, making it seem unclear.

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or art, an "elliptical" style can create mystery or provoke thought by not saying everything outright. For example, an author might use elliptical dialogue to suggest deeper meanings without explicitly stating them.

Word Variants:

• Ellipse (noun): A shape that is oval or egg-like.
• Ellipsis (noun): The omission of words in a sentence, often represented by three dots (...).

Different Meanings:

• In mathematics, "elliptical" can also refer to certain types of functions or equations, particularly in the study of geometry.
• In astronomy, "elliptical" can describe the shape of the orbits of planets or stars, which often follow an elliptical path.

Synonyms:

• For shape: oval, egg-shaped
• For communication: concise, terse, succinct, ambiguous

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "elliptical," but you might encounter phrases like "leave something unsaid," which captures the idea of elliptical communication.

Summary:

In summary, "elliptical" can describe both a shape that resembles an egg and a way of speaking or writing that is brief and may omit important details.

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Adjective

1. characterized by extreme economy of expression or omission of superfluous elements
   • the dialogue is elliptic and full of dark hints
   • the explanation was concise, even elliptical to the verge of obscurity- H.O.Taylor
2. rounded like an egg

Synonyms

• elliptic
• egg-shaped
• oval
• oval-shaped
• ovate
• oviform
• ovoid
• prolate