a one-dimensional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a one-dimensional" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something that has only one aspect, characteristic, or quality. For example: The character in the book was so one-dimensional that it was hard to relate to him.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a one-dimensional view.

The New York Times

That's a one-dimensional attitude.

The New York Times

Lopez could remain a one-dimensional scorer.

The New York Times - Sports

I'm not a one-dimensional player".

The New York Times - Sports

"He was a one-dimensional player".

The New York Times - Sports

Billy, though, was never a one-dimensional flat-track bully.

The Guardian - Sport

It's pretty much a one-dimensional market still.

The New Yorker

So this is not just a one-dimensional threat".

The New York Times

"This is not just a one-dimensional problem".

The New York Times

"This is not a one-dimensional story," Ms. Zahn said.

The New York Times

But it is ultimately tethered to a one-dimensional vision.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing characters in writing, avoid making them "a one-dimensional" stereotype. Develop their personalities with multiple traits and motivations for richer storytelling.

Common error

Avoid reducing intricate problems or situations to "a one-dimensional" explanation. Acknowledge the various contributing factors and nuances involved for a more accurate understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a one-dimensional" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lack of depth, complexity, or nuance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a one-dimensional" is a commonly used and grammatically sound adjective phrase, as verified by Ludwig AI. It serves to describe something lacking depth or complexity, often in a critical or negative light. While versatile, it appears most frequently in news, scientific, and formal contexts. When writing, be mindful of oversimplifying complex topics and avoid creating "a one-dimensional" characters. Consider alternative phrases like "a simplistic" or "a superficial" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unidimensional

Is a synonym, keeping almost the same wording. This is more a formal variation.

an oversimplified

Indicates that something has been made too simple, potentially distorting the truth.

a simplistic

Emphasizes the simplicity of something, often implying a lack of complexity or nuance.

a narrow-minded

Highlights a limited perspective or unwillingness to consider different viewpoints.

a superficial

Focuses on the surface level, lacking depth or substance.

a limited

Indicates a restriction or constraint, suggesting a lack of scope or variety.

a shallow

Similar to superficial, emphasizing a lack of intellectual or emotional depth.

a simple

Indicates something is easy to understand or lacking in complexity.

a basic

Suggests a rudimentary or fundamental level of understanding or development.

a two-dimensional

Offers a contrast, suggesting something has more depth but may still be incomplete.

FAQs

How can you use "a one-dimensional" in a sentence?

You can use "a one-dimensional" to describe something lacking depth or complexity, such as "The villain in the movie was a one-dimensional character with no redeeming qualities".

What are some alternatives to "a one-dimensional"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a simplistic", "a superficial", or "a narrow-minded".

Is it better to describe something as "a two-dimensional" instead of "a one-dimensional"?

Describing something as "a two-dimensional" suggests it has slightly more depth or complexity than something "a one-dimensional", but it still might be lacking in some areas. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone is described as "a one-dimensional" person?

It generally means they are perceived as having a limited range of interests, emotions, or personality traits. It suggests they lack depth or complexity.