dimensions
dimensions — noun
1. the length, width, height, or other measurements that show how big something is
the length, width, height, or other measurements that show how big something is in different directions.
Christopher wrote the table's dimensions on the delivery form before signing it.
write the dimensions on [document]
Putri compared the suitcase dimensions with the airline's carry-on limits.
compare dimensions with a limit
Darius checked the window dimensions twice before cutting the glass.
The museum crate arrived with its dimensions printed on the side.
- measurements
focuses on the exact numbers you get by measuring
- size
more general and less specific about separate directions
- proportions
emphasises how the measurements relate to each other
文法句型
the dimensions of + noun
dimensions + are + number + by + number
用法筆記
Usually plural when you give several measurements together. Use singular 'dimension' when you mean just one direction, such as the width or depth of something.
常見錯誤
2. the different parts, sides, or ways of understanding a situation, problem, or ex
the different parts, sides, or ways of understanding a situation, problem, or experience.
Lucía's report examines the social dimensions of tourism in the old town.
social dimensions of [issue]
We had not considered the legal dimensions of sharing the video online.
legal dimensions of [action]
The debate soon revealed the ethical dimensions of the research project.
Gabriela's article explores the emotional dimensions of caring for a parent.
文法句型
the dimensions of + issue
political/social/emotional dimensions
用法筆記
Usually plural when several related aspects are being discussed together. Use singular 'dimension' more often in patterns like 'another dimension to the story' when you mean one added aspect.
常見錯誤
dimensions — verb
1. to cut, trim, or form a material so that it has the exact measurements that are
to cut, trim, or form a material so that it has the exact measurements that are needed.
Anthony dimensioned the oak boards so they would fit the narrow alcove.
dimension + material + so-clause
Before assembly, the workshop dimensioned each metal panel to the same width.
dimension + object + to + measurement
Padma dimensioned the foam pieces with a hot wire cutter.
The factory dimensioned the plastic sheets for the new storage bins.
- trim
more general and common in everyday speech
- shape
broader; not always focused on exact measurements
- cut to size
natural multi-word alternative outside technical writing
文法句型
dimension + material
dimension + object + to + measurement
用法筆記
Technical manufacturing and workshop use. The object is the material being shaped, and the goal is a required size. In everyday English, speakers often say 'cut to size' or 'trim to size' instead.
常見錯誤
2. to write the measurements on a drawing or plan so builders or makers can follow
to write the measurements on a drawing or plan so builders or makers can follow them.
Yuki dimensioned the cabinet drawing before sending it to the carpenter.
dimension + drawing
The engineer dimensioned the bridge plan in millimetres, not inches.
dimension + plan + in + unit
Before printing the blueprint, Mark dimensioned every doorway on the ground-floor plan.
The architect dimensioned the kitchen layout to show the gap beside the fridge.
文法句型
dimension + drawing
dimension + plan + in + unit
用法筆記
Used mainly in architecture, engineering, and product design. The object is the drawing or plan, not the real object being built. Distinguish from verb/1, which changes the material itself.