When we talk about 'dimensions,' we're often referring to the measurable aspects of something, like its length, width, or depth. Think of a box; its dimensions tell you how big it is in three directions. However, 'dimensions' can also be used in a more abstract sense.
For instance, you might discuss the 'dimensions' of a complex problem, meaning the various facets, aspects, or angles that contribute to it. In this context, it helps to break down a situation into its constituent parts to understand it more fully. Therefore, it moves beyond simple physical measurement to encompass broader, more conceptual perspectives.
§ What does it mean and when do people use it?
The word 'dimensions' is a versatile noun with two primary meanings, both crucial for understanding various aspects of our world and daily life. It's classified at a CEFR B1 level, indicating that it's a useful word for intermediate English learners to grasp.
- Meaning 1: Measurable Size
- The most common use of 'dimensions' refers to the measurable size of an object. This includes its length, width, and depth (or height). When we talk about an object's dimensions, we are essentially describing its physical extent in space. This meaning is frequently encountered in practical situations, from construction and engineering to everyday tasks like buying furniture or sending a package.
Think about when you're moving to a new apartment. You'll need to know the dimensions of your sofa to make sure it fits through the door. Or, if you're building a bookshelf, you'll need precise dimensions for the wood to ensure it's stable and fits your space. This application of 'dimensions' is all about concrete, quantifiable measurements.
Before ordering the new refrigerator, we carefully measured the kitchen space to ensure its dimensions would fit perfectly.
- Meaning 2: Aspect or Feature
- Beyond physical measurements, 'dimensions' can also refer to a particular aspect, feature, or facet of a situation, problem, or even a concept. In this sense, it helps us break down complex ideas into understandable parts, allowing for a more thorough analysis or discussion. This usage is more abstract but equally important for nuanced communication.
For example, a global crisis might have economic, social, and political dimensions. When discussing a work of art, you might explore its emotional or symbolic dimensions. This usage highlights the different angles or perspectives from which something can be viewed or understood. It allows for a deeper and more comprehensive examination of a subject.
The debate on climate change has many ethical and economic dimensions that need to be considered.
The context usually makes it clear which meaning of 'dimensions' is being used. If you're talking about physical objects and measurements, it's the first meaning. If you're discussing ideas, problems, or situations, it's likely the second. Understanding both uses is key to fully appreciating the word's flexibility in the English language.
In summary, 'dimensions' is a powerful word that helps us describe the world around us, both in its physical form and in its abstract complexities. From the tangible measurements of an object to the intricate layers of a problem, mastering the use of 'dimensions' will significantly enhance your ability to communicate clearly and precisely.
- **When people use it for measurable size:**
- When planning home renovations or construction projects.
- When describing the size of products, like appliances or furniture.
- When packaging items for shipping.
- In scientific and engineering contexts to define physical properties.
- **When people use it for aspects or features:**
- When analyzing complex social, political, or economic issues.
- When discussing different viewpoints or perspectives on a topic.
- In academic or intellectual discussions to explore the facets of an idea.
- When describing the depth or breadth of a story, character, or work of art.
Being able to differentiate between these two applications of 'dimensions' will greatly improve your comprehension and expression in various situations, making you a more effective communicator in English.
§ Similar words and when to use 'dimensions' vs. alternatives
The word 'dimensions' is versatile and can refer to physical measurements or abstract aspects of something. Understanding its nuances and comparing it with similar words will help you use it more precisely.
Let's break down some similar terms and when 'dimensions' is the best choice:
For Physical Measurements:
- Measurements: This is a very general term that can refer to any act of measuring or the results obtained. While 'dimensions' specifically refers to length, width, and depth, 'measurements' can include weight, temperature, time, and so on.
- DEFINITION
- The act or process of measuring, or the result of measuring.
Please take the precise measurements of the room before ordering furniture.
Use 'dimensions' when you specifically want to convey the spatial extent of an object (length, width, height/depth). Use 'measurements' when you're talking about any quantifiable aspect.
- Size: This is another general term referring to the overall bigness or smallness of something. It doesn't specify the individual spatial attributes like 'dimensions' does.
- DEFINITION
- The overall bigness or smallness of something.
The size of the room is perfect for a small office.
Use 'dimensions' when you need to be precise about the specific length, width, and depth. Use 'size' when a general indication of scale is sufficient.
- Proportions: This refers to the relationship of parts to each other or to the whole. While related to dimensions, 'proportions' focuses on ratio and balance rather than absolute measurements.
- DEFINITION
- A part, share, or number considered in comparative relation to a whole.
The architect ensured the building's proportions were harmonious.
'Dimensions' provides the raw numbers, while 'proportions' describes how those numbers relate to create a balanced or unbalanced whole.
For Abstract Aspects:
- Aspects/Facets: These are very close synonyms for 'dimensions' when referring to a particular feature or point of view of a situation or problem. They are often interchangeable.
- DEFINITION
- A particular part or feature of something.
We need to consider all aspects of the proposal before making a decision.
'Dimensions' often implies a sense of scope or magnitude in addition to just being a feature. When you talk about the 'dimensions' of a problem, you're often implying its complexity or the many different angles from which it can be viewed.
- Scope: This refers to the extent of the area or subject matter that something deals with or to which it is relevant. 'Dimensions' can contribute to defining the scope.
- DEFINITION
- The extent of the area or subject matter that something deals with or to which it is relevant.
The scope of the project is much larger than initially anticipated.
When discussing the 'dimensions' of a project, you're often elaborating on the individual elements that contribute to its overall 'scope'.
When to use 'dimensions':
Use 'dimensions' when you need to:
- Specify physical measurements: This is its most common and precise use, especially in technical or practical contexts.
The shipping container has very specific dimensions.
- Highlight the various complex aspects of an abstract concept: It adds a sense of depth and breadth to the discussion.
The economic crisis presented several unforeseen dimensions.
In summary, while there are many related words, 'dimensions' offers a specific way to talk about spatial measurements and to convey the multi-faceted nature of abstract concepts. Choosing 'dimensions' often implies a desire for greater precision or a more thorough understanding of all angles involved.
难度评级
The word is common in academic and technical texts, but the definition itself is straightforward.
Using 'dimensions' correctly requires understanding its plural form and its use in both literal and figurative contexts.
Pronunciation is fairly standard, but using it naturally in conversation might require some practice.
Common enough to be recognized, but the context will be important to distinguish between its different meanings.
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前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
Nouns that refer to measurable attributes often take 's' to form their plural, even when referring to a single set of measurements.
The box has dimensions of 10cm by 5cm by 3cm.
The word 'dimensions' can be followed by a prepositional phrase using 'of' to specify the object being measured.
We need to consider all the dimensions of the problem before making a decision.
When 'dimensions' refers to aspects or features, it is often used in the plural.
The architect carefully considered the dimensions of the room before drawing the plans.
Adjectives describing size (e.g., 'large', 'small', 'exact') can precede 'dimensions'.
He explained the new policy, touching on its social and economic dimensions.
The verb 'to have' is commonly used with 'dimensions' to describe the size of an object.
The small cupboard had surprisingly generous dimensions.
习语与表达
"fourth dimension"
A hypothetical additional dimension beyond the usual three (length, width, and depth), often associated with time or a supernatural realm.
Some science fiction stories explore travel through the fourth dimension.
neutral"new dimension"
An additional or different aspect that adds complexity, interest, or understanding to something.
Her unique artistic style added a new dimension to the exhibition.
neutral"expand the dimensions of something"
To increase the scope, scale, or extent of something; to broaden its reach or influence.
The company aimed to expand the dimensions of its international market.
formal"add a new dimension to"
To introduce a new and significant aspect or quality to something, often improving or enhancing it.
Learning a new language can add a new dimension to your travel experiences.
neutral"measure the dimensions of a problem"
To assess the full extent, complexity, and various aspects of a problem.
Before proposing a solution, we need to accurately measure the dimensions of the problem.
formal"beyond the dimensions of"
Outside the typical or expected scope, size, or understanding of something; often implying something extraordinary or incomprehensible.
The beauty of the universe is often beyond the dimensions of human comprehension.
neutral"take on new dimensions"
For something to develop or evolve in ways that make it more complex, significant, or extensive.
The political scandal took on new dimensions after the leaked documents were published.
neutral"the human dimension"
The aspects of a situation or issue that relate specifically to people, their feelings, behaviors, and experiences.
When planning urban development, it's crucial to consider the human dimension.
formal"a man of many dimensions"
A person with a wide range of talents, interests, and complex character traits.
He was a man of many dimensions, equally adept at science and art.
neutral"in every dimension"
In every possible aspect, way, or perspective; comprehensively.
The project was a success in every dimension, from its planning to its execution.
neutral词族
名词
动词
形容词
常见问题
10 个问题Certainly! Here are a few examples:
- 'The box was too large, so I had to check its dimensions before buying it.' (referring to size)
- 'We need to consider all the dimensions of this problem before making a decision.' (referring to aspects)
- 'The room's dimensions are 10 feet by 12 feet.' (referring to measurements)
That's a good question! While often used interchangeably, 'dimensions' refers to the overall size, typically length, width, and depth. 'Measurements' is a more general term that can refer to any quantifiable attribute, like weight, temperature, or even the passage of time. So, dimensions are a type of measurement.
Good observation! While the definition provided specifically mentions the plural form, 'dimension' (singular) is also a valid word. For example, 'The fourth dimension is time.' Or, 'This project adds a new dimension to our work.'
Absolutely! As the definition states, it can refer to 'a particular aspect or feature of a situation or problem.' So, you can talk about the 'social dimensions of poverty' or the 'emotional dimensions of a relationship.'
It's pronounced /dɪˈmɛnʃənz/. The stress is on the second syllable, 'men'.
Not many very common idioms, but you might hear phrases like 'add a new dimension to something' which means to introduce a new aspect or feature that makes it more complex or interesting. For example, 'Her experience added a new dimension to our team.'
The word 'dimension' comes from the Latin word 'dimensio,' meaning 'a measuring.' It's related to the verb 'dimetiri,' which means 'to measure out.'
Yes, definitely! In physics, 'dimensions' can refer to the fundamental physical quantities, such as length, mass, and time, that are used to describe physical phenomena. For example, 'space has three dimensions.'
'Dimensions' is generally considered a formal to neutral word. It's perfectly suitable for both everyday conversation and more academic or professional contexts.
Certainly! When referring to aspects of a problem, some good synonyms for 'dimensions' would be aspects, facets, elements, or features. For example, 'We need to consider all the facets of this issue.'
自我测试 72 个问题
The box has big ___.
Dimensions refer to the size, like length, width, and height. A box can have big sizes.
What are the ___ of your new room? Is it big?
We ask about the 'dimensions' to know the size of the room (how long, how wide).
The table's ___ are length, width, and height.
Length, width, and height are all parts of the dimensions of an object.
I need to know the ___ of the picture frame to buy the right size.
To buy the right size frame, you need to know its length and width, which are its dimensions.
The artist used different ___ in his painting, making it look deep.
In art, 'dimensions' can refer to how depth is created, giving the painting a sense of size or space.
Can you tell me the ___ of this toy car? I want to know how big it is.
To know how big a toy car is, you ask for its 'dimensions' (length, width, height).
The box has three _____: length, width, and height.
Dimensions refer to the measurable size of an object, like length, width, and height.
What are the important _____ of a room?
When we talk about a room, 'dimensions' means its size, like how long or wide it is.
This problem has many _____. We need to think about all of them.
Here, 'dimensions' means different aspects or parts of a problem or situation.
The dimensions of a table tell us how long and wide it is.
Yes, dimensions tell us the size of an object like its length and width.
A small box has many dimensions.
Even a small box has dimensions, like length, width, and height. 'Many' here refers to the different measurable aspects (length, width, depth).
The color of a car is one of its dimensions.
No, color is not a dimension. Dimensions are about measurable size, like length or height.
Write a sentence using the word "dimensions" to describe the size of a box.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The box has small dimensions.
Complete the sentence: The toy has three ______: length, width, and height.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The toy has three dimensions: length, width, and height.
Write a simple question using the word "dimensions" to ask about something's size.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
What are the dimensions of this table?
What does the person need to measure?
Read this passage:
My new bed is very big. I need to measure its dimensions to see if it fits in my room. I will check the length, width, and height.
What does the person need to measure?
The passage states, 'I need to measure its dimensions to see if it fits in my room.'
The passage states, 'I need to measure its dimensions to see if it fits in my room.'
What is important when choosing a picture frame?
Read this passage:
A picture frame has different dimensions. Some are small, and some are big. We need to choose the right dimensions for our photo.
What is important when choosing a picture frame?
The passage says, 'We need to choose the right dimensions for our photo.'
The passage says, 'We need to choose the right dimensions for our photo.'
What did the teacher want the students to do?
Read this passage:
The teacher asked the students to find the dimensions of their desks. This means they need to measure how long, wide, and tall their desks are.
What did the teacher want the students to do?
The passage explains that finding the dimensions means 'to measure how long, wide, and tall their desks are.'
The passage explains that finding the dimensions means 'to measure how long, wide, and tall their desks are.'
Listen for the size of the room.
What did she measure?
What is important to understand about the problem?
Read this aloud:
What are the dimensions of your new house?
Focus: di-MEN-sions
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
Can you tell me the length, width, and height of this table?
Focus: length, width, height
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
Think about the different dimensions of the project.
Focus: different di-MEN-sions
你说的：
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The architect carefully measured the __________ of the room before ordering the furniture.
Dimensions refer to the measurable size of an object, which is important for furniture placement.
Understanding all the __________ of the problem is crucial for finding a good solution.
In this context, 'dimensions' refers to the different aspects or features of a problem.
The box has small __________, so it won't hold much.
Small dimensions mean the box is not very big in terms of length, width, and depth.
We need to consider the economic __________ of the new project.
The economic 'dimensions' of a project refer to its financial aspects or features.
Before you buy new curtains, you need to measure the window's _________.
Measuring the window's dimensions (length, width) is necessary to ensure the curtains fit.
The movie explores the human __________ of the war.
The 'human dimensions' of the war refer to its impact on people and their experiences.
Think about the size of the room.
Consider the different aspects of the problem.
They need to know the size of the package.
Read this aloud:
The architect asked for the exact dimensions of the window.
Focus: dimensions
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
Let's consider all the dimensions of the project before making a final decision.
Focus: consider, dimensions, decision
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
Understanding the cultural dimensions of a country is very important when traveling.
Focus: understanding, cultural, dimensions, important
你说的：
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The architect carefully considered all the ___ of the building before finalizing the design.
The context refers to the measurable size of the building, making 'dimensions' the most appropriate choice.
Understanding the cultural ___ of a negotiation is crucial for a successful outcome.
Here, 'dimensions' refers to the various aspects or features of the negotiation, specifically cultural ones.
The scientist was studying the microscopic ___ of the new material.
'Dimensions' accurately describes the measurable sizes of the material at a microscopic level.
Before ordering the furniture, we need to take precise ___ of the room.
Taking 'dimensions' refers to getting the length, width, and height of the room.
The report highlighted the economic ___ of the crisis, but also touched upon the social impact.
'Dimensions' effectively describes the different aspects or features of the crisis being discussed.
To solve this complex problem, we must consider all its various ___.
The phrase 'various dimensions' is a common way to refer to all the different aspects of a complex problem.
This sentence instructs someone to measure the size of a room.
This sentence indicates that a policy has various aspects or features.
This sentence emphasizes the need to look at all aspects of a problem.
Discuss the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence in contemporary society, considering its potential benefits and drawbacks.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence are multifaceted and require careful consideration as AI becomes more integrated into our daily lives. On one hand, AI offers transformative potential in areas like healthcare, education, and environmental protection, promising greater efficiency and problem-solving capabilities. However, concerns arise regarding data privacy, algorithmic bias, job displacement, and the potential for autonomous systems to make decisions without human oversight. Ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI development is crucial to mitigate these risks and harness its benefits responsibly.
Analyze the various dimensions of globalization, including its economic, cultural, and political impacts on different nations.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Globalization, a complex and pervasive phenomenon, encompasses multiple dimensions that profoundly influence nations worldwide. Economically, it has fostered interconnected markets, increased trade, and facilitated the flow of capital, often leading to economic growth but also to concerns about inequality and exploitation. Culturally, globalization has led to the spread of ideas, customs, and technologies, sometimes enriching diverse societies, while at other times raising fears of cultural homogenization. Politically, it has reshaped international relations, giving rise to new forms of governance and cooperation, yet also challenging national sovereignty and exacerbating global power imbalances.
Describe the different dimensions of a sustainable urban environment, focusing on aspects like infrastructure, social equity, and environmental protection.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
A truly sustainable urban environment is characterized by several interconnected dimensions that contribute to the well-being of its inhabitants and the planet. Robust and efficient infrastructure is paramount, including public transportation, renewable energy systems, and waste management facilities. Social equity is another crucial dimension, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable housing, quality education, healthcare, and green spaces, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Finally, environmental protection must be integrated into all urban planning, focusing on reducing carbon emissions, conserving biodiversity, and promoting green building practices to create resilient and livable cities for future generations.
What is the primary challenge faced by the project as described in the passage?
Read this passage:
The architect meticulously planned every dimension of the new building, from its towering height to the precise width of each corridor. However, the project encountered unforeseen challenges related to the social dimensions of urban planning, specifically how the building would integrate with the existing community and its historical significance.
What is the primary challenge faced by the project as described in the passage?
The passage states that the project 'encountered unforeseen challenges related to the social dimensions of urban planning, specifically how the building would integrate with the existing community and its historical significance.' This directly points to the third option.
The passage states that the project 'encountered unforeseen challenges related to the social dimensions of urban planning, specifically how the building would integrate with the existing community and its historical significance.' This directly points to the third option.
According to the passage, what is required to effectively address a complex problem like poverty?
Read this passage:
Understanding the multiple dimensions of a complex problem is crucial for devising effective solutions. For instance, addressing poverty requires not only economic interventions but also considerations of educational access, healthcare disparities, and systemic social inequalities.
According to the passage, what is required to effectively address a complex problem like poverty?
The passage emphasizes that 'addressing poverty requires not only economic interventions but also considerations of educational access, healthcare disparities, and systemic social inequalities,' indicating a multi-dimensional approach.
The passage emphasizes that 'addressing poverty requires not only economic interventions but also considerations of educational access, healthcare disparities, and systemic social inequalities,' indicating a multi-dimensional approach.
How did the artist's latest collection explore new dimensions of abstract expressionism?
Read this passage:
The artist explored new dimensions of abstract expressionism in her latest collection, pushing the boundaries of traditional painting by incorporating unconventional materials and digital projections. Critics praised her ability to evoke profound emotions through these innovative artistic dimensions.
How did the artist's latest collection explore new dimensions of abstract expressionism?
The passage explicitly states that the artist 'explored new dimensions of abstract expressionism in her latest collection, pushing the boundaries of traditional painting by incorporating unconventional materials and digital projections.'
The passage explicitly states that the artist 'explored new dimensions of abstract expressionism in her latest collection, pushing the boundaries of traditional painting by incorporating unconventional materials and digital projections.'
This sentence describes how a new policy introduced an additional aspect to an existing discussion, fitting the 'particular aspect or feature of a situation' meaning of 'dimension'.
This sentence uses 'dimensions' to refer to various aspects or facets of a problem that need to be examined comprehensively.
This sentence uses 'dimensions' in its most common sense, referring to the measurable size (length, width, depth) of a physical object, in this case, a room.
The architect meticulously planned every _____ of the building, ensuring both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
In this context, 'dimension' refers to the various aspects or features considered in the planning of the building, such as its size, shape, and aesthetic elements.
Understanding the cultural _____ of a negotiation is crucial for achieving a successful outcome.
'Dimensions' here refers to the various aspects or facets of a cultural context that need to be understood.
The economist emphasized the socio-economic _____ of the new policy, warning of potential long-term impacts.
'Dimensions' is used here to describe the different facets or aspects of the policy's socio-economic impact.
To truly grasp the complexity of the global climate crisis, one must consider its ecological, political, and ethical _____.
'Dimensions' effectively conveys the idea of multiple, distinct aspects contributing to the overall complexity of the crisis.
The artist experimented with the spatial _____ of the sculpture, creating a sense of movement and depth.
Here, 'dimensions' refers to the measurable size and extent in space, which the artist manipulates to create an effect.
Despite extensive research, some fundamental _____ of the universe remain largely unknown to scientists.
'Dimensions' is used to refer to the various measurable or conceptual aspects of the universe that are still being explored.
This sentence refers to 'dimensions' as aspects or features, specifically the complex aspects of quantum physics that challenge traditional views.
Here, 'dimensions' refers to the various aspects or features of human suffering, which the novel explores in great detail.
In this sentence, 'dimensions' refers to the measurable size of the building, specifically its length, width, and depth, as they relate to maximizing light.
/ 72 correct
Perfect score!
