relativity Definition
- 1the absence of standards of absolute and universal application
- 2the dependence of various physical phenomena on relative motion of the observer and the observed objects, especially regarding the nature and behavior of light, space, time, and gravity
Using relativity: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "relativity" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The theory of relativity revolutionized modern physics.
Example
The concept of relativity is important in understanding cultural differences.
Example
The relativity of beauty is a philosophical topic that has been debated for centuries.
relativity Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for relativity
- dependence
- subjectivity
- contextuality
Antonyms for relativity
Phrases with relativity
a theory of gravitation that was developed by Albert Einstein between 1907 and 1915. According to general relativity, the observed gravitational attraction between masses results from the warping of space and time by those masses.
Example
General relativity predicts that light will bend when it passes near a massive object.
a theory developed by Albert Einstein in 1905 that describes the laws of motion and electrodynamics in frames of reference moving at constant velocities relative to each other. According to special relativity, the speed of light is constant and the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion relative to one another.
Example
Special relativity predicts that time appears to pass more slowly for objects that are moving relative to an observer.
the principle that an individual human's beliefs and activities should be understood by others in terms of that individual's own culture.
Example
Cultural relativity is important in anthropology, where researchers strive to understand the practices and beliefs of different cultures without imposing their own values and assumptions.
Origins of relativity
from Latin 'relativus', meaning 'having reference or relation'
Summary: relativity in Brief
The term 'relativity' [ˌreləˈtɪvəti] refers to the absence of absolute and universal standards, as well as the dependence of physical phenomena on the relative motion of the observer and observed objects. This concept is fundamental to modern physics, exemplified by Einstein's theories of special and general relativity. 'Relativity' also extends into cultural contexts, where it denotes the principle of understanding beliefs and practices within their own cultural context.
