Basic Details
Word: Hypotenuse
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The longest side of a right-angled triangle, opposite the right angle.
Synonyms: Longest side
Antonyms: N/A
Idioms and Phrases
- Across the hypotenuse: Used to describe a shortcut or quicker method to reach a conclusion or destination. Example: "To solve this problem efficiently, you need to think across the hypotenuse."
- In the right angle: Means to be in a good or correct position. Example: "You must stand in the right angle to see the entire picture clearly."
Usage Examples
Example 1: In a right triangle, the hypotenuse can be found using the Pythagorean theorem.
Example 2: When measuring the hypotenuse, you must ensure your calculations are precise to avoid errors.
Example 3: In geometry class, we learned how to identify the hypotenuse of various triangles.
Fun Fact
The term "hypotenuse" comes from the Greek word "hypoteinousa," which means "stretching under." It has been used in mathematics for over two centuries to describe this important triangle side.
Famous Quote
"Mathematics is the language with which God has written the universe." Galileo Galilei
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "hypotenuse" mean?
a) The shortest side of a triangle
b) The longest side of a right triangle
c) The angle in a triangle
d) A type of triangle
Answer: b) The longest side of a right triangle
2. Which of these is a synonym of "hypotenuse"?
a) Base
b) Perpendicular
c) Longest side
d) Altitude
Answer: c) Longest side
3. Which sentence uses "hypotenuse" correctly?
a) I measured the hypotenuse with my compass.
b) The hypotenuse is the shortest side of the triangle.
c) In a right-angled triangle, the hypotenuse is the longest side.
d) We painted the hypotenuse blue.
Answer: c) In a right-angled triangle, the hypotenuse is the longest side.
4. Which idiom refers to a straightforward or shorter method?
a) In the right angle
b) Across the hypotenuse
c) Under the triangle
d) Round the corner
Answer: b) Across the hypotenuse
5. What is the opposite of "hypotenuse"?
a) N/A
b) Base
c) Height
d) Side
Answer: a) N/A
