Synonyms for
Linear
Definition
arranged in or extending along a straight or nearly straight line
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- linear progression
- linear relationship
- linear equation
- linear model
- linear growth
- linear path
- linear algebra
Word family
Usage note
Often used in mathematics and science to describe relationships or processes that change at a constant rate. Avoid using it to describe something that is simply straight but not necessarily following a constant rate of change.
Example sentences
- The road was linear and ran straight through the desert.
- The ruler is a linear tool used for measuring straight lines.
- The train tracks are linear and run in a straight line.
- The graph shows a linear relationship between the variables.
- He drew a linear picture of the horizon.
Quotes
'Linear thinking typifies the Western mind and its linear approach to problem-solving.' - James Hillman
'The beauty of the straight line or the circle or the square lies in their simplicity, and not in their complexity.' - Piet Mondrian
'I want to make beautiful things, even if nobody cares, as opposed to ugly things. That's my intent.' - Saul Bass