Oblong vs. Oval: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Oblong shapes are elongated rectangles with parallel sides, while ovals are egg-shaped or elliptical, with no sharp angles.
Key Differences
Oblong refers to a shape that is longer than it is wide, resembling an elongated rectangle, whereas an oval is more like an elongated circle, with a smooth, continuous curve.
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Dec 04, 2023
Oblong shapes typically have right angles and parallel sides, giving them a more structured appearance. Ovals, on the other hand, lack sharp angles, characterized by their smooth, rounded perimeter.
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In design, oblong shapes convey a sense of order and structure, often used in architecture and furniture. Ovals are perceived as softer and more organic, commonly used in design for a natural, flowing feel.
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Oblong shapes are seen in objects like bricks and smartphones, emphasizing functionality. Ovals are found in designs like mirrors and rugs, emphasizing aesthetics.
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Oblong shapes are often associated with stability and practicality, while ovals symbolize harmony and continuity, reflecting their respective geometric properties.
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Comparison Chart
Shape Description
Elongated rectangle with parallel sides
Egg-shaped or elliptical with no sharp angles
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Angles and Edges
Typically has right angles
Smooth, curved edges with no angles
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Common Usage
Architecture, furniture, functional objects
Design elements, natural forms, aesthetic objects
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Perception and Symbolism
Symbolizes stability and practicality
Represents harmony and continuity
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Examples in Nature
Less common in natural forms
More common in natural forms (e.g., eggs, leaves)
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Oblong and Oval Definitions
Oblong
A shape that is longer than it is wide, resembling a stretched rectangle.
The oblong table was perfect for the narrow dining room.
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Oval
In geometry, a curve resembling a stretched circle without sharp edges.
The racetrack was designed in an oval shape.
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Oblong
In design, a shape that emphasizes length.
The oblong windows added a unique touch to the building's facade.
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Oval
An elliptical form that is symmetrical and smooth.
The garden's central feature was an oval pond.
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Oblong
An extended form with parallel sides.
She chose oblong tiles for the bathroom floor.
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Oval
A shape resembling a flattened circle or an elongated circle.
The oval mirror added elegance to the room.
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Oblong
In geometry, a shape without rounded corners and longer in one direction.
The oblong park was a popular spot for joggers.
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Oval
A form commonly found in nature, like the shape of an egg.
The bird laid small, oval eggs.
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Oblong
Referring to objects that are rectangular but noticeably elongated.
His phone had an oblong design, making it sleek and modern.
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Oblong
Deviating from a square, circular, or spherical form by being elongated in one direction.
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Oblong
(Botany) Having an elongated form with approximately parallel sides
An oblong leaf.
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Oval
An elongated round shape resembling an egg or ellipse. Category:en:Curves
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Oblong
Having a length and width that are different; not square or circular.
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Oval
(math) In a projective plane, a set of points such that no three are collinear and there is a unique tangent line at each point.
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Oblong
(bookmaking) Having the horizontal axis of a page longer than the vertical; In landscape orientation.
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Oval
Of or pertaining to eggs; done in the egg, or inception; as, oval conceptions.
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Oval
Having the figure of an egg; oblong and curvilinear, with one end broader than the other, or with both ends of about the same breadth; in popular usage, elliptical.
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Oblong
A rectangular figure longer than it is broad; hence, any figure longer than it is broad.
The best figure of a garden I esteem an oblong upon a descent.
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Oval
A closed plane curve resulting from the intersection of a circular cone and a plane cutting completely through it;
The sums of the distances from the foci to any point on an ellipse is constant
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Oblong
A plane figure that deviates from a square or circle due to elongation
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Oblong
Of a leaf shape; having a somewhat elongated form with approximately parallel sides
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Oval
Any smooth, rounded, elongated shape without angles.
Her face had a distinct oval contour.
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Oblong
Deviating from a square or circle or sphere by being elongated in one direction
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Are oblong and oval interchangeable terms?
No, they refer to different shapes.
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Are oblong shapes common in architecture?
Yes, oblong shapes are often used in architectural designs.
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Does oblong imply a longer shape than oval?
Yes, oblong typically suggests a more elongated form.
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Can both shapes have symmetrical properties?
Yes, both can be symmetrical, but in different ways.
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Do ovals have any sharp angles?
No, ovals are characterized by their smooth, rounded edges.
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Is an oblong a type of rectangle?
Yes, it's a form of rectangle that is significantly longer than it is wide.
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Can an oval shape have right angles?
No, ovals do not have right angles; they have curved sides.
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Can ovals be used in design for aesthetics?
Yes, ovals are commonly used in design for their pleasing and graceful appearance.
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Can an oval be considered a type of circle?
An oval is similar to a circle but stretched out.
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Is an oval a closed or open curve?
An oval is a closed curve, meaning it forms a complete shape with no breaks.
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What is the major axis of an oval?
The major axis is the longer of the two axes that run through the center of an oval.
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Can an oblong shape have right angles?
Yes, an oblong shape can have right angles, as seen in a rectangle.
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Is a football (soccer ball) an oval shape?
Yes, a football is typically an oval shape, known as a prolate spheroid.
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What is the mathematical term for the ratio of the longer side to the shorter side of an oblong shape?
The mathematical term for this ratio is "aspect ratio."
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Is an oblong shape the same as a parallelogram?
No, an oblong shape is not necessarily a parallelogram, but it can be.
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Are all oblong shapes symmetrical?
No, not all oblong shapes are symmetrical; they can be asymmetrical as well.
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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.
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