outer dimension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outer dimension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing spatial concepts, metaphysics, or theoretical physics, often referring to dimensions beyond the commonly understood three-dimensional space. Example: "In theoretical physics, the concept of an outer dimension suggests the existence of additional spatial dimensions that we cannot perceive."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The foreign-body membrane had the outer dimension of the removed bone segment.

Injury

The versatility of the improved design manifests in less variance in outer dimension of trays and reduced volume of rejects.

Journal of Materials Processing Technology

The influence of connectivity, diffusion coefficient, outer dimension of pellet and operating time on optimal pore structure have been investigated.

Chemical Engineering Science

The endomicroscopic catheter has an outer dimension of 7 × 7 mm with the 5 mm diameter of the objective lens and successfully demonstrates the SD OCT image of a mouse ear as shown in Fig. 5d.

Micro and Nano Systems Letters

It is designed so that the internal dimension of the solid grip cover in the transverse direction is larger than the outer dimension of the handle pillar to allow 0.5 mm clearance.

ROBOMECH Journal

The outer dimension of these three common CDs are constant at 0.78 nm but their inner dimensions are variable, being 0.57 nm for α-, 0.78 nm for β-, and 0.95 nm for γ-CD respectively [6].

Chemistry Central Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

2) There are many data points that contribute to a ballpark factor, including outer dimensions, size of an outfield, the quality of pitchers dealing inside it, at this stage of the season, weather, and most notably in the case of Coors Field, feet above sea-level.

The Guardian - Sport

The outer dimensions of pile cap depend on the pile group arrangement.

International Journal of Geo-Engineering

The nominal outer dimensions were 0.1 m diameter × 0.2 m high.

Chemical Engineering Science

The pixel active area is 3.9×3.2 mm2, the pixel pitch is 4.0×4.0 mm2, and the tile outer dimensions are 32.6×32.6 mm2.

EJNMMI Physics

Second, a tumor specimen's outer dimensions provide no information about the tumor's internal biological heterogeneity.

EJNMMI Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "outer dimension" to clearly specify the external size, differentiating it from internal dimensions. This is especially crucial in technical writing and product specifications.

Common error

Avoid using "outer dimension" interchangeably with "area" or "volume". "Outer dimension" refers to linear measurements, while "area" and "volume" describe two-dimensional and three-dimensional space respectively. Be specific in your measurement terms to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outer dimension" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As evidenced by Ludwig, it specifies a measurable characteristic of an object or space, focusing on its external size.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

90%

Wiki

6%

News & Media

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "outer dimension" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term, particularly in scientific and technical contexts. It accurately specifies the external measurements of an object, as verified by Ludwig. While alternatives like "overall size" or "external measurement" exist, using "outer dimension" clarifies a focus on measurable dimensions. When writing, be careful not to confuse it with related but distinct concepts such as area or volume. Its formal register suits professional and academic discourse, emphasizing the need for precision in technical descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

external measurement

Focuses on the act of measuring the outside extent rather than the extent itself.

overall size

Highlights the complete size without focusing specifically on dimensional aspects.

total extent

Emphasizes the comprehensive reach or scope in terms of size.

maximum girth

Implies the largest circumference or width, specifically relevant for non-uniform shapes.

greatest length

Refers to the longest measurement in a particular direction.

farthest reach

Denotes the maximum distance an object spans or extends.

outward extension

Highlights the action of extending outward, indicating the final measured size.

bounding size

Indicates the size that contains or encompasses the entire object or area.

surface dimension

Specifically refers to the size when considering only the surface area.

limiting boundary

Emphasizes the outermost boundary and its size, often used in spatial contexts.

FAQs

How do I correctly use "outer dimension" in a sentence?

Use "outer dimension" to specify the external measurements of an object. For example, "The "outer dimension" of the box is 10x10x10 cm." It clarifies the overall size without referring to internal space or volume.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "outer dimension"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "external measurement", "overall size", or "total extent" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "outer dimension" the same as "area" or "volume"?

No, "outer dimension" refers to the linear measurement of an object's exterior, while "area" is a two-dimensional measurement, and "volume" is a three-dimensional measurement. Avoid interchanging these terms for accurate descriptions.

When is it most appropriate to use the term "outer dimension"?

It's best to use "outer dimension" when precision is needed in describing the size of an object, especially when internal space or specific features are not the primary focus. It is commonly used in technical specifications, engineering, and design contexts.