Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to or arranged along a line: Involving a single dimension of length, as opposed to area or volume.
   • Characterized by a direct, sequential progression: Following a step-by-step order without deviation or branching.
   • In mathematics, designating a relationship of direct proportionality: Involving an equation or function where the variables appear only to the first power and are not multiplied together.
   • In electronics, having an output directly proportional to the input: Describing a device or circuit that produces a response that is a straight-line function of its stimulus.

Examples of Usage

• Relating to a line:
  • The ruler is used for making linear measurements.
  • The artist preferred linear drawings over shaded ones.
• Sequential progression:
  • The novel follows a linear narrative from beginning to end.
  • The company uses a linear process for product development.
• In mathematics:
  • The equation y = 2x + 3 is a linear equation.
  • Linear functions graph as straight lines.
• In electronics:
  • A linear amplifier reproduces the input signal without distortion.

Advanced Usage

• "Linear thinking": A style of thought that proceeds in a step-by-step, logical fashion, often contrasted with lateral or creative thinking.
  • His linear thinking was perfect for solving the engineering problem but not for brainstorming new ideas.
• "Linear regression": In statistics, a method for modeling the relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables by fitting a linear equation.
  • We used linear regression to analyze the trend in the sales data.

Variants and Related Words

• Linearity (noun): The quality or state of being linear.
  • The linearity of the device's response was crucial for the experiment.
• Linearly (adverb): In a linear manner.
  • The costs increase linearly with production volume.
• Nonlinear (adjective): Not linear; not arranged in a straight line or involving a direct sequence.
  • The system exhibited nonlinear behavior under high stress.

Synonyms

• Direct: Proceeding in a straight line or by the shortest course.
• Sequential: Forming or following a logical order or sequence.
• Proportional: Corresponding in size or amount to something else.

Antonyms

• Nonlinear: Not linear; involving curves, branches, or indirect relationships.
• Exponential: Increasing at an accelerating rate.
• Lateral: Involving sideways or indirect movement or thinking.

Related Phrases

• "Linear foot" (or "running foot"): A unit of measurement for length, especially for materials sold by length.
  • The lumber is priced per linear foot.
• "Linear perspective": In art, a technique for representing three-dimensional space on a flat surface using converging lines.
  • The painting uses linear perspective to create a sense of depth.

Adjective

1. measured lengthwise
   • cost of lumber per running foot
2. (of a leaf shape) long and narrow
3. of a circuit or device having an output that is proportional to the input
   • analogue device
   • linear amplifier
4. of or in or along or relating to a line; involving a single dimension
   • a linear measurement
5. designating or involving an equation whose terms are of the first degree