unidirectional

Thân thiện

A unidirectional arrow points to the right on a sign.

Definition

Adjective: 1. Operating, moving, or allowing movement in one direction only: Describes something that functions, travels, or permits travel along a single path or line, without a reverse or opposite flow. 2. Characterized by a one-sided approach: Describes a method, process, or perspective that proceeds in a single, fixed direction without reciprocal interaction or feedback.

Usage and Examples

• Describing Physical Flow or Movement:

  • The data cable is unidirectional; it can only send signals from the computer to the monitor, not the other way.
  • A unidirectional microphone picks up sound primarily from one direction, reducing background noise.
  • The valve ensures a unidirectional flow of water through the pipe.

• Describing Abstract Concepts or Approaches:

  • The teacher's unidirectional lecture style involved no discussion or questions from students.
  • Their communication was unidirectional, consisting only of orders from management with no channel for employee feedback.

Advanced Usage

• In Technology and Engineering: Often used to specify the directional properties of components like antennas, microphones, diodes, or data transmission.
  • Unidirectional tires have a specific tread pattern designed for optimal performance when rotating in one direction only.
• In Social or Organizational Contexts: Can imply a lack of collaboration or a top-down, non-reciprocal dynamic.
  • The policy was criticized for its unidirectional nature, failing to consider the perspectives of those it affected.

Variants and Related Words

• Unidirectionally (adverb): In a unidirectional manner.
  • The energy was transferred unidirectionally from the source to the device.
• Directional (adjective): Relating to or indicating direction. (Note: can imply one or more specific directions, while specifies exactly one).
• Bidirectional (adjective): Operating or moving in two directions, usually opposite ones. (This is a direct antonym in technical contexts).

Synonyms

• One-way
• Non-reversible
• Single-direction

Antonyms

• Bidirectional
• Two-way
• Reciprocal
• Omnidirectional (in contexts of signal reception/transmission)

Related Phrases and Concepts

• One-way street: A literal example of unidirectional movement for vehicles.
• Top-down communication: A management style that is often functionally unidirectional.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. operating or moving or allowing movement in one direction only
   • a unidirectional flow
   • a unidirectional antenna
   • a unidirectional approach to a problem