dimensions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dimensions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to measurable extents of an object, such as length, width, and height, or in a metaphorical sense to describe aspects or features of a concept or situation. Example: "The dimensions of the room are 12 feet by 15 feet, providing ample space for furniture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, London Underground's dimensions could prove a challenge.

The Guardian

The search will invoke mini black holes, antimatter, quark-gluon plasma, and extra dimensions of space.

The Guardian - Opinion

Try to fold items carefully using the maximum dimensions of the case as fewer folds take up less room and minimise creasing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And Justice Kennedy, in particular, appeared to have absorbed the subtler dimensions of the government's defence of the law.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are based upon the formula for a spherical helix in 3D per "CRC Standard Curves" by David von Seggern, modified so that dimension z was modified into dimensions x and y, and the whole was spun about a larger circle.

WikiHow

"They were very hard to use and can only visualize objects in two dimensions, so we started thinking it would be useful to expand everything".

The Guardian

This protest – in both its peaceful and more violent dimensions – is a sign of a country unafraid to fight back, for the first time in a long time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jon Erickson, professor of ecological economics at University of Vermont, says that because of its comprehensive nature, GPI can help agencies work together – as opposed to pulling in different directions – and can represent scenarios that show impacts on multiple dimensions.

The Guardian

Glitter-bombing is the subject of an online business of unknown dimensions.

The Guardian

Again, I'm with BillyMills – although again, there are other dimensions to explore.

The Guardian - Books

"It's tokenism at its worst, treating architecture in only two dimensions," says Clem Cecil of Save Britain's Heritage.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "dimensions" to specify length, width, and height. For abstract concepts, consider it when referring to different aspects or facets of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "dimensions" when simpler terms like "aspects" or "factors" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "dimensions" is as a noun, typically used in the plural form. It refers to measurable extents of an object or the aspects of a situation. As shown in Ludwig AI examples, it is used to describe physical measurements and abstract characteristics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "dimensions" functions primarily as a noun, frequently appearing in its plural form to denote either measurable extents or various aspects of a topic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields, including news, science, and business. While interchangeable with terms like "measurements" or "aspects", choosing "dimensions" provides a precise and, often, formal tone. To prevent wordiness, you can avoid overuse in situations where simpler alternatives suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

measurements

Focuses specifically on quantifiable extents or sizes.

proportions

Emphasizes the relative size and scale of different parts.

measure

Highlights the action of finding out size, amount, or degree of something.

size

Refers generally to overall magnitude or extent.

scope

Indicates the extent or range of something.

aspects

Highlights different facets or parts of a subject.

parameters

Refers to defined limits or characteristics.

extents

Indicates the range or degree to which something reaches.

magnitudes

Highlights the size or extent, often of something large.

characteristics

Focuses on the qualities or features of something.

FAQs

How do I use "dimensions" in a sentence?

You can use "dimensions" to refer to physical measurements (e.g., "The dimensions of the room are 10x12 feet") or to aspects of a situation (e.g., "The problem has many dimensions").

What's the difference between "dimensions" and "aspects"?

"Dimensions" often implies measurable or definable extents, while "aspects" refers more generally to different features or elements of something.

What can I say instead of "dimensions"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "measurements", "proportions", "scope", or "aspects".

Is it correct to use "dimensions" when referring to abstract concepts?

Yes, it is correct. "Dimensions" can be used metaphorically to describe the different facets or aspects of an abstract concept or problem. For example: "The ethical dimensions of the issue are complex".