Definitions
- Describing the direction of rotation of an object or movement in a circle that is opposite to the direction of a clock's hands. - Referring to a leftward or anticlockwise motion, as opposed to a rightward or clockwise motion. - Talking about a turn or movement that goes against the usual or expected direction.
- Describing a direction of movement that is opposite to the sun's apparent path across the sky. - Referring to a counterclockwise or leftward motion, often with a mystical or supernatural connotation. - Talking about a movement or action that goes against the natural or customary order.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a direction of movement that is opposite to the usual or expected direction.
- 2Both can be used to describe circular or rotational motion.
- 3Both have a sense of going against the norm or breaking with tradition.
- 4Both are less common and more specialized than other directional terms.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Counterclockwise is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts, while widdershins is more often used in folklore or magical contexts.
- 2Connotation: Widdershins has a more supernatural or mystical connotation, while counterclockwise is more neutral and descriptive.
- 3Geography: Widdershins is more commonly used in British English and Scottish dialects, while counterclockwise is more common in American English.
Remember this!
Counterclockwise and widdershins both describe a direction of movement that is opposite to the usual or expected direction, but they differ in their origin, usage, connotation, etymology, and geography. Counterclockwise is a modern term used in technical or scientific contexts, while widdershins has a more archaic and mystical origin and is used in folklore or magical contexts.
