parabolical

/,pærə'bɔlikəl/

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Certainly! Let's break down the word "parabolical" for you.

Definition:

"Parabolical" is an adjective that has two main meanings: 1. Mathematical Meaning: It describes something that has the shape of a parabola. A parabola is a specific kind of curve that looks like an upside-down "U" or a "U" shape. It is often seen in graphs of quadratic equations. 2. Literary Meaning: It can also mean something that resembles or is expressed in parables. A parable is a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "parabolical" to describe shapes in mathematics or to talk about stories that teach lessons through analogy.

Examples:

1. Mathematical Use: "The path of the ball when thrown into the air follows a parabolical trajectory."
2. Literary Use: "The author's writing style is often parabolical, using simple stories to convey deep truths."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, you might encounter "parabolical" in discussions about physics, engineering, or literature, where precise descriptions of curves or storytelling techniques are important.

Word Variants:

• Parabola (noun): The curve itself.
• Parabolic (adjective): Often used interchangeably with "parabolical," particularly in mathematical contexts.

Different Meanings:

While "parabolical" usually refers to the two meanings listed above, it can also be used more metaphorically to describe anything that has a similar shape or moral quality.

Synonyms:

• For the mathematical meaning: "curved," "arc-shaped."
• For the literary meaning: "allegorical," "figurative."

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs that use "parabolical," but you might hear discussions about "parabolic motion" in physics, which refers to the trajectory of objects under the influence of gravity.

Summary:

In summary, "parabolical" can describe a specific mathematical shape or can refer to stories that convey lessons.

Academic

Adjective

1. having the form of a parabola
2. resembling or expressed by parables

Synonyms

• parabolic