perpendicular to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "perpendicular to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in mathematical or geometric contexts to describe the relationship between two lines or surfaces that meet at a right angle. Example: "The two lines are perpendicular to each other, forming a perfect right angle at their intersection."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At one point we were skidding perpendicular to the road".

The New York Times

/ Perpendicular to the plane of the horizon.

The New York Times

where is perpendicular to.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

conditions measured perpendicular to bedding.

Geothermal Energy

Coordinate perpendicular to disk (m).

International Nano Letters

The nanotip is perpendicular to the nanowire.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Fault zone perpendicular to the migration pathway.

Petroleum Science

Z is perpendicular to the liquid surface.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Velocity component perpendicular to disk (m/s).

International Nano Letters

Similarity velocity perpendicular to disk (m/s).

International Nano Letters

Cut into thin strips, perpendicular to the stem.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing spatial relationships, ensure the objects you're relating with "perpendicular to" are clearly defined. For instance, specify which plane or axis the subject is perpendicular to for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "perpendicular to" when the relationship is simply angular but not a right angle. Perpendicularity specifically implies a 90-degree angle.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perpendicular to" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate its spatial relationship relative to another object. It describes that one item is at a right angle (90 degrees) to another. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it clarifies orientation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

23%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "perpendicular to" is a prepositional phrase indicating a right-angle relationship between two objects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various fields. Predominantly found in scientific and technical contexts, it also appears in news and general writing. When using this phrase, ensure the geometric context is precise and clear, as misunderstanding can lead to errors. Consider alternatives like "at right angles to" or "orthogonal to" for stylistic variation, depending on the formality required. The examples provided by Ludwig highlight its utility in accurately describing spatial arrangements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at right angles to

This alternative uses a more descriptive term for perpendicularity, specifying the angle.

orthogonal to

This alternative is more formal and often used in mathematical or scientific contexts.

normal to

This alternative is often used in mathematics and physics to describe a line or vector that is perpendicular to a surface or another line.

at 90 degrees to

This alternative explicitly states the angle of intersection.

vertically aligned with

This alternative emphasizes vertical alignment, implying perpendicularity in specific contexts.

transverse to

This alternative focuses on the crossing nature of the relationship.

crossing at a right angle

This alternative provides a more verbose description of the geometric relationship.

upright to

This alternative suggests a vertical orientation relative to a base.

straight up from

This alternative describes a direction directly upwards from a point or surface.

at a quadrature with

This alternative, less common, describes a phase relationship of 90 degrees, similar to perpendicularity.

FAQs

How is "perpendicular to" used in technical contexts?

In technical fields like mathematics and engineering, "perpendicular to" describes lines, planes, or vectors that intersect at a right angle, ensuring precision in calculations and designs.

What are some common synonyms for "perpendicular to"?

Alternatives include "at right angles to", "orthogonal to", and "normal to". The choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

When is it incorrect to use the term "perpendicular to"?

It's incorrect to use "perpendicular to" when describing lines or surfaces that intersect at an angle other than 90 degrees. In such cases, use terms like "angled" or "oblique".

How does "perpendicular to" differ from "parallel to"?

"Perpendicular to" indicates an intersection at a right angle, while "parallel to" indicates that lines or planes extend in the same direction and never intersect.