unparallel
Adjective: 1. Not straight or parallel: Describes lines, edges, or paths that are not aligned in a straight line or do not maintain a constant distance from each other; divergent or non-parallel. 2. Without equal or match; unparalleled: In a broader, often figurative sense, describes something that is so exceptional it has no parallel or equal. (Note: This meaning is less common and often considered a variant or confusion with "unparalleled.")
- The geologist noted the unparallel rock strata, indicating a significant tectonic shift in the region's history.
- The two roads started together but ran in unparallel directions, one veering north and the other east.
- (Figurative, less common) The artist achieved an unparallel level of detail in her miniature portraits. (More standard: )
- Technical/Mathematical Context: Primarily used in geometry, engineering, drafting, and geology to describe physical lines, planes, or features that fail to meet the condition of parallelism.
- The survey revealed that the property's fences were unparallel with the official boundary lines.
- Figurative/Colloquial Context: While sometimes used to mean "unequaled," this usage is often flagged by style guides as an error for "unparalleled." For clarity and precision, "unparalleled" is strongly preferred in this sense.
- Nonparallel (adj.): A more common and precise synonym meaning "not parallel." Often preferred in formal technical writing.
- Unparalleled (adj.): Having no parallel or equal; matchless. This is the standard and correct term for expressing exceptional quality.
- Divergent (adj.): Tending to be different or develop in different directions.
- Convergent (adj.): (Antonym) Tending to meet or come together.
- Parallel (adj.): (Antonym) Of lines, planes, or surfaces) side by side and having the same distance continuously between them.
- Nonparallel
- Divergent
- Converging (if lines are moving toward a point)
- Intersecting
- Askew
- Parallel
- Aligned
- Equidistant
The word unparallel is relatively uncommon. In most contexts where one intends to describe something as "not parallel," the term nonparallel is more frequently used and is often clearer. When describing something as "unequaled" or "matchless," unparalleled is the unequivocally correct and standard choice. Using "unparallel" to mean "unparalleled" is generally considered nonstandard.
- not straight or parallel