linear

Describing a relationship where equal changes in one amount produce equal changes in another.

• The graph shows a linear relationship.
• Costs rose at a linear rate.
• We used a linear model to predict demand.

Similar words: lineal

Common phrases: linear relationship, linear model, linear growth

Straight or nearly straight, following the shape or direction of a line.

• The objects form a linear arrangement.
• The robot followed a linear path.
• Its movement was roughly linear.

Similar words: straight, direct

Opposites: curved

Common phrases: linear path, linear arrangement, linear movement

Describing an equation in which unknown numbers are not multiplied together or raised to powers above one.

• We solved a linear equation.
• This linear polynomial has one variable.
• The students compared linear and quadratic equations.

Similar words: first-degree

Common phrases: linear equation, linear polynomial, linear system

Describing a shape or design that uses many straight lines.

• She prefers linear designs.
• The artist used strong linear patterns.
• The building combines linear shapes with soft colours.

Common phrases: linear design, linear pattern, linear shapes

Describing a function that preserves addition and multiplication by a number.

• This is a linear map.
• A matrix can represent a linear transformation.
• The sum of two linear operators is linear.

Common phrases: linear map, linear transformation, linear operator