non-symmetric
Definition
- Adjective:
- Lacking symmetry: "non-symmetric" describes something that does not have symmetry; it is not balanced or identical on both sides of a central line or point.
- Not corresponding in form or arrangement: In mathematics or geometry, "non-symmetric" refers to a figure, shape, or relation that does not exhibit symmetry under a transformation (such as reflection or rotation).
Usage Examples
- (The design lacks symmetry.)
- (The matrix does not show symmetry.)
- (The front of the building is not balanced.)
Advanced Usage
"non-symmetric relation": In mathematics, a relation that is not symmetric; i.e., if a is related to b, it does not imply that b is related to a.
- The relation "is taller than" is non-symmetric because if Alice is taller than Bob, Bob is not taller than Alice. (The relation lacks symmetry.)
"non-symmetric distribution": In statistics, a distribution that is not symmetrical around its mean.
- The data showed a non-symmetric distribution, with a long tail to the right. (The distribution is skewed, not balanced.)
Variants and Related Words
Non-symmetry (noun): the state or quality of being non-symmetric.
- The non-symmetry of the pattern made it appear chaotic. (The lack of symmetry caused disorder.)
Asymmetric (adj): a synonym meaning not symmetrical, often used interchangeably with "non-symmetric".
- The asymmetric shape of the leaf helped it capture more sunlight. (The shape lacked symmetry.)
Synonyms
Asymmetric: not symmetrical.
- The asymmetric design was intentional. (The design lacked symmetry.)
Uneven: not equal or balanced.
- The table had uneven legs, making it wobble. (The legs were not symmetrical.)
Irregular: not following a regular or symmetrical pattern.
- The coastline had an irregular shape. (It did not have a symmetrical form.)
Antonyms
Symmetric: having symmetry.
- A circle is a symmetric shape. (It is balanced.)
Balanced: having equal proportions.
- The balanced composition of the painting was pleasing. (It was symmetrical.)
Related Idioms
- However, the concept appears in phrases like "out of balance" or "lopsided".
- The argument was lopsided, with one side dominating. (The argument was not balanced or symmetric.)