multidimensional
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˌʌltɪdaɪmˈɛnʃənəl/
US
- /mˌʌltɪdɪmˈɛnʃənəl/
Description
- Having many aspects
- Having many layers
- Seen from many sides
Imagine a painting—it has length and width, making it two-dimensional. Now imagine sculpting that same image into a statue; it gains depth, becoming three-dimensional. But what if the artist also considered time, emotion, and symbolism? That's when things become truly *multidimensional*.
This word goes beyond physical space. It describes anything with several layers or parts: a character in a novel who is not simply "good" or "bad" but has mixed motives, a scientific problem that involves many factors, or a piece of music with many parts working together. You might hear it in art, psychology, science, or data analysis. For example: "The artist aimed to create a multidimensional portrait that captured the subject's inner life."
"Multidimensional" describes something that has many aspects, layers, or dimensions beyond the basic three of length, width, and height. While we often associate "dimension" with physical space, it can also refer to abstract qualities like time, emotion, perspective, or data points. Think of a cube—it's three-dimensional. Now imagine adding information about its color, weight, temperature, and history. Suddenly, you're dealing with something *multidimensional*.
The term is frequently used in fields like mathematics and physics to describe spaces with more than three dimensions (though these are often theoretical). However, it's become increasingly common in everyday language to convey complexity and nuance.
A *multidimensional character in a story isn't flat or one-note; they have depth, contradictions, and evolving motivations. A multidimensional* problem requires considering multiple factors before arriving at a solution. In data science, "multidimensional analysis" means examining information from various angles to uncover hidden patterns.
You might say: "Her understanding of the situation was truly multidimensional, taking into account historical context, political influences, and personal relationships." Or, "The new software allows for multidimensional modeling of complex systems." It suggests a richness and intricacy that goes beyond simple categorization or linear thinking. So, when something is described as *multidimensional*, expect it to be far more than meets the eye—a world within a world, full of layers waiting to be explored.
Examples
- 1
Data visualization
The software turns the data into a multidimensional chart that you can rotate and explore.
- 2
Social issues
Poverty is a multidimensional problem, so money alone will not solve it.
- 3
Support strategy
The team took a multidimensional approach, combining medical care, education, and family support.
- 4
Fictional character
She is a multidimensional character, not just the hero’s best friend.
Phrase
a multidimensional character
a character with several different sides to their personality
- 5
City report
The report gives a multidimensional view of the city, including its economy, culture, and environment.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- multidimensionaladjective