in different planes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in different planes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe objects, concepts, or ideas that exist or operate in various dimensions or levels of abstraction. Example: "The artist's work explores themes of reality and perception, presenting them in different planes that challenge the viewer's understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By winking, they can switch the glasses electronically to polarise light in different planes.

The Guardian

The real time imaging mode continuously monitors the position of the instrument in different planes.

Medical Laser Application

Blue arrowheads point at cells in which the Z-ring and PG labeling are oriented in different planes.

Nature

The relations of forms in depth can then be thought of as relations between forms lying in different planes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Chromatic aberration is present when the lens forms imagesby different-coloured light in different planes and at different scales.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The complex three dimensional flow structures are revealed by plotting the results in different planes.

Chemical Engineering Science

Interpretation of the captured images will be done through power patterns in different planes.

Composite Structures

X-ray CT is a non-destructive inspection technique which provides cross-sectional images in different planes through a component.

International Journal of Pharmaceutics

In the side view, the left cross-section shows that the four support rings are in different planes due to the Rowland curvature.

Harvard University

In the cuttlefish (Sepia), the statocyst is structurally even more complicated; besides three cristae, it has three maculae (statolith organs) also arranged in different planes.

Britannica

Pleochroism, (from Greek pleiōn, "more," and chrōs, "colour"), in optics, the selective absorption in crystals of light vibrating in different planes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex systems or models, use "in different planes" to clearly delineate distinct levels of analysis or operation. For example, "The project was evaluated in different planes: financial viability, environmental impact, and social responsibility."

Common error

Avoid using "in different planes" when describing abstract concepts that don't relate to spatial dimensions. For instance, instead of saying 'The arguments exist in different planes of thought', consider using phrases like 'on different levels' or 'from different perspectives' for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in different planes" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb. According to Ludwig, it's used to describe the spatial or conceptual arrangement of elements across distinct levels. Examples illustrate its use in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

News & Media

8%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in different planes" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe the arrangement or existence of elements on distinct spatial or conceptual levels. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in scientific, academic, and general writing. While primarily denoting spatial separation, it can also be applied to abstract concepts, although alternatives like "on different levels" or "from different perspectives" may offer greater clarity in those contexts. Ludwig confirms that its frequency and varied application across source types underscore its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on various levels

Replaces 'planes' with 'levels', suggesting a hierarchical or abstract distinction rather than a literal spatial one.

across multiple dimensions

Emphasizes a multifaceted distinction, broadening the concept from planes to more general dimensions.

in separate strata

Implies a layered or hierarchical arrangement, focusing on distinct levels or categories.

within distinct frameworks

Highlights conceptual or theoretical separation, suggesting different perspectives or models.

at different junctures

Shifts the focus to temporal separation, indicating different points in time or stages of a process.

through varied lenses

Focuses on differences in perspective or interpretation, emphasizing subjective viewpoints.

in diverse settings

Emphasizes a variety of environments or contexts, focusing on situational differences.

under different guises

Suggests variations in appearance or presentation, highlighting superficial differences.

along different avenues

Indicates alternative paths or approaches, emphasizing differences in methods or strategies.

among disparate elements

Highlights the distinction between separate and unrelated components.

FAQs

How can I use "in different planes" in a sentence?

You can use "in different planes" to describe how elements are arranged or exist on different spatial levels. For example, "The sculpture's components were positioned in different planes to create a sense of depth."

What is an alternative to "in different planes"?

Alternatives include "on various levels", "across multiple dimensions", or "in separate strata", depending on the intended meaning and context. Consider using "on various levels" to convey hierarchical distinction.

Is it correct to use "in different planes" to describe abstract ideas?

While technically correct, it's often clearer to use alternative phrasing for abstract ideas. Instead of using "in different planes" for concepts, consider using "from different perspectives" or "on different levels".

What does "in different planes" mean?

"In different planes" refers to elements existing or operating on distinct spatial or conceptual levels. It emphasizes separation and distinctness. For example, "the model's components were arranged in different planes".