Basic Details
Word: Perpendicular
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Two lines or surfaces that meet at a right angle (90 degrees) to each other.
Synonyms: Upright, vertical, crosswise
Antonyms: Parallel, aligned
Idioms and Phrases
- Right as rain: Used to describe something that is in perfect order or condition, like perpendicular lines in geometry. Example: "After fixing the picture frame, it was right as rainperfectly perpendicular."
- Against the grain: To do something that is not typical or goes against the norm, similar to how perpendicular lines can be seen as contrasting. Example: "Choosing to take art classes when everyone else pursued science was against the grain for him."
Usage Examples
Example 1: In mathematics, two lines that are perpendicular to each other form a right angle.
Example 2: The architect designed the walls to be perpendicular to the floor for stability.
Example 3: When drawing a square, it's important to ensure all sides are perpendicular to create perfect corners.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "perpendicular" comes from the Latin word "perpendicularis," meaning "vertical" or "straight up and down"? This reflects the concept of right angles in geometry.
Famous Quote
"The beauty of mathematics only shows itself to more patient followers." - Mary Cartesian
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "perpendicular" mean?
a) Lines that are very close together
b) Lines that meet at a right angle
c) Curved lines
d) Lines that are parallel
Answer: b) Lines that meet at a right angle
2. Which of these is a synonym of "perpendicular"?
a) Aligned
b) Crosswise
c) Parallel
d) Horizontal
Answer: b) Crosswise
3. Which word is an antonym of "perpendicular"?
a) Vertical
b) Aligned
c) Uplifted
d) Inclined
Answer: b) Aligned
4. Which sentence uses "perpendicular" correctly?
a) The table stands perpendicular to the wall, creating a perfect right angle.
b) The tree grew perpendicular in the sky.
c) The fish swam perpendicular in the ocean.
d) The cat ran perpendicular to the mouse.
Answer: a) The table stands perpendicular to the wall, creating a perfect right angle.
5. Which idiom means doing something unconventional, similar to perpendicular?
a) Right as rain
b) Against the grain
c) Straight as an arrow
d) Out of the blue
Answer: b) Against the grain
