What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orthogonality
Example
The two vectors are orthogonal to each other. [orthogonal: adjective]
Example
Orthogonality is an important concept in linear algebra. [orthogonality: noun]
perpendicularity
Example
The wall is perpendicular to the floor. [perpendicular: adjective]
Example
The carpenter ensured the perpendicularity of the beams before constructing the roof. [perpendicularity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perpendicularity is more commonly used than orthogonality in everyday language, while orthogonality is more commonly used in technical fields such as mathematics and computer science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between orthogonality and perpendicularity?
Orthogonality is typically associated with a more formal and technical tone, while perpendicularity can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
