Definition

Noun: 1. The state or quality of being asymmetrical, unbalanced, or uneven, especially with one side larger, heavier, or lower than the other. It refers to a lack of symmetry or proportion, often implying a noticeable and sometimes awkward imbalance.

Usage

The noun "lopsidedness" describes a condition of imbalance. It is often used to critique or point out a lack of fairness, equality, or physical symmetry. * It is commonly used with verbs like show, demonstrate, correct, address, or exaggerate. * It is often modified by adjectives like obvious, glaring, slight, or inherent.

Examples

• The lopsidedness of the sculpture gave it a dynamic, if unstable, appearance.
• Economists are concerned about the lopsidedness of the trade relationship between the two countries.
• The political debate was criticized for its lopsidedness, as one side was given far more speaking time.
• A slight lopsidedness in his smile made his face more distinctive.

Advanced Usage

• "to betray a lopsidedness": to reveal an imbalance, often unintentionally.
  • The budget figures betray a serious lopsidedness in spending priorities.
• "inherent lopsidedness": an imbalance that is a fundamental or built-in characteristic.
  • Critics point to the inherent lopsidedness of a winner-takes-all electoral system.

Variants and Related Words

• Lopsided (adj): Uneven, asymmetrical, or unbalanced.
  • The lopsided score of 10-1 surprised everyone.
• Asymmetry (n): Lack of symmetry or proportion. (This is a more general and formal synonym.)
• Imbalance (n): Lack of balance or proportion. (A broader term that can apply to non-physical contexts like power or resources.)

Synonyms

• Asymmetry
• Imbalance
• Disproportion
• Unevenness
• Skewness

Antonyms

• Symmetry
• Balance
• Proportion
• Evenness
• Equilibrium

Noun

1. an oblique or slanting asymmetry