Asymmetric vs. Asymmetrical: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Asymmetric and asymmetrical are interchangeable, both meaning not symmetrical or lacking symmetry in form, shape, or arrangement.
Key Differences
Asymmetric and asymmetrical are both adjectives used to describe something that lacks symmetry, though 'asymmetric' is often used in more technical or scientific contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
In design and art, asymmetrical is frequently used to describe objects or compositions that are not mirror images on either side, while asymmetric is common in mathematics and physics to describe unequal or uneven distributions.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Asymmetric may be used in biology and chemistry to refer to molecules or organisms with non-symmetrical features, whereas asymmetrical is often employed in fashion and architecture to describe designs that intentionally avoid symmetry.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
The choice between asymmetric and asymmetrical can depend on stylistic preference or context; 'asymmetric' is sometimes preferred for its brevity, while 'asymmetrical' may be chosen for emphasis or clarity.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Comparison Chart
Usage Context
More technical, scientific contexts
Art, design, fashion, architecture
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Common in Disciplines
Mathematics, physics, biology, chemistry
Design, art, fashion, architecture
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Style and Preference
Preferred for brevity in technical writing
Used for emphasis in creative fields
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Meaning
Not symmetrical, uneven, unbalanced
Lacking symmetry, not mirror-like
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Example Use
Asymmetric encryption in cybersecurity
Asymmetrical dress in fashion design
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Asymmetric and Asymmetrical Definitions
Asymmetric
Unequal in size or shape.
The asymmetric division of cells is critical in development.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Asymmetrical
Characterized by the absence of symmetry in design.
The painting’s asymmetrical composition was striking.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Asymmetric
Not identical on both sides of a central line; uneven.
The asymmetric pattern of the leaf caught my attention.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Asymmetrical
Uneven or unbalanced in appearance or shape.
The room had an asymmetrical layout, adding to its charm.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Asymmetric
Lacking symmetry in arrangement or form.
Asymmetric warfare involves uneven forces.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Asymmetrical
Not symmetrical; lacking balanced proportions.
She wore an asymmetrical skirt that was shorter on one side.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Asymmetric
Imbalanced or not mirror-like in design.
Modern architects often favor asymmetric designs.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Asymmetrical
Not mirror-like or evenly divided in form.
Asymmetrical hairstyles are popular for their edgy look.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Asymmetric
Existing or occurring between two incommensurate entities, especially to the detriment of one.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetrical
Existing or occurring between two incommensurate entities, especially to the detriment of one.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetric
Characterized by an imbalance in power between two opponents in an armed conflict, especially one in which a weaker force uses unconventional means, such as guerilla or terrorist tactics
Asymmetric warfare.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetrical
Characterized by an imbalance in power between two opponents in an armed conflict, especially one in which a weaker force uses unconventional means, such as guerilla or terrorist tactics
Asymmetric warfare.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetric
(Chemistry) Of or relating to a carbon atom having four different atoms or structural groups attached to it, resulting in an unbalanced spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule, so that the molecule cannot be superimposed on its mirror image; chiral.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetrical
(Chemistry) Of or relating to a carbon atom having four different atoms or structural groups attached to it, resulting in an unbalanced spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule, so that the molecule cannot be superimposed on its mirror image; chiral.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetric
Not symmetric.
An asymmetric shape
Asymmetric gameplay, where different players have different experiences
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetric
(cryptography) Not involving a mutual exchange of keys between the sender and receiver.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetrical
(of a question) Presenting a false dilemma, or a choice between two things which are not opposites.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetric
(set theory) Of a relation R on a set S: having the property that for any two elements of S (not necessarily distinct), at least one is not related to the other via R.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetrical
Characterized by asymmetry in the spatial arrangement or placement of parts or components
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetrical
Irregular in shape or outline;
Asymmetrical features
A dress with an crooked hemline
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetric
Not symmetrical; wanting proportion; esp., not bilaterally symmetrical.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetrical
Irregular in shape, pattern, or arrangement.
The asymmetrical pattern of the fabric made it unique.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Asymmetric
Characterized by asymmetry in the spatial arrangement or placement of parts or components
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Asymmetric
Disproportionate in distribution or arrangement.
The vase featured an asymmetric arrangement of flowers.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What does asymmetric mean?
Asymmetric refers to something that is not symmetrical, uneven, or unbalanced.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
In which context is asymmetric more commonly used?
Asymmetric is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
What types of designs are described as asymmetrical?
Asymmetrical designs are found in art, fashion, and architecture, often for a unique or unconventional look.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Are asymmetric and asymmetrical interchangeable?
Yes, they are largely interchangeable but may be chosen based on context or stylistic preference.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
How does asymmetrical apply to fashion?
In fashion, asymmetrical refers to garments with uneven hemlines or non-mirror-like designs.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Is asymmetric used in biology?
Yes, asymmetric is used in biology to describe organisms or processes that lack symmetry.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
How is asymmetrical defined?
Asymmetrical describes a lack of symmetry, balance, or uniformity in design or form.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Is asymmetrical commonly used in art?
Yes, asymmetrical is often used in art to describe compositions that avoid balanced or mirror-like arrangements.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
How is asymmetric used in cybersecurity?
In cybersecurity, asymmetric refers to encryption methods where keys are not identical or symmetrical.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Do asymmetric and asymmetrical have different origins?
Both words have similar origins, derived from the Greek 'symmetria' meaning 'measured together,' with the prefix 'a-' denoting 'not.'
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Can a building be asymmetric?
Yes, buildings can have asymmetric designs, especially in modern architecture.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Do asymmetric and asymmetrical have the same meaning in mathematics?
In mathematics, both terms are used to describe shapes or equations that lack symmetry.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
How do asymmetric and asymmetrical relate to aesthetics?
Both terms relate to aesthetics in the sense of creating visual appeal through unbalanced or unconventional forms.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Does asymmetrical have a different implication in design?
In design, asymmetrical often implies a deliberate choice to create visual interest or uniqueness.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Can a hairstyle be described as asymmetric?
Yes, hairstyles can be asymmetric, with uneven lengths or styles on different sides.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
How do asymmetric and asymmetrical apply to photography?
In photography, these terms describe compositions that lack balanced elements, often for dramatic effect.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Can an object be both symmetric and asymmetric?
An object cannot be both; it is either symmetric (balanced) or asymmetric (unbalanced).
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Can nature be asymmetric?
Yes, many natural forms, like leaves or landscapes, can be asymmetric.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
How are asymmetric and asymmetrical used in geometry?
In geometry, these terms describe shapes or figures that do not have symmetrical properties.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Is it common for logos to be asymmetrical?
Many logos are asymmetrical to create a distinctive and memorable appearance.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Share this page
Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Hifza Nasir
Shumaila Saeed
