01
linear
Straight or running in the form of a line.
example
Die Ornamente waren in einer streng linearen Anordnung an der Wand angebracht.
The ornaments were arranged on the wall in a strictly linear pattern.
linear
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'linear' is closely related to the noun 'die Linie' (the line). Everything that is linear follows some kind of line—either a real straight line or a figurative one, such as a fixed order.
EXAMPLE
Zeichnen Sie eine gerade Linie von Punkt A nach Punkt B.
Draw a straight line from point A to point B.
Adjective and adverb
'Linear' can stand before a noun as an adjective or function as an adverb describing a verb. The form of the word does not change.
EXAMPLE
Die Firma hat eine sehr lineare Organisationsstruktur.
The company has a very linear organizational structure.
Figurative meaning
'Linear' often describes actions or narratives that proceed strictly one after another, without deviations or jumps. This term is often found in reviews of books, films, or computer games.
EXAMPLE
Die Handlung des Films ist sehr linear und vorhersehbar.
The plot of the film is very linear and predictable.
Technical language
In mathematics and the natural sciences, 'linear' has an exact meaning. It describes a relationship in which a change in one quantity causes a proportional change in another.
EXAMPLE
In den ersten Monaten zeigte die Firma ein lineares Wachstum.
In the first few months, the company showed linear growth.
Compare with
linear vs gerade
right now / straight
'gerade' and 'linear' can both describe something that runs without a curve or bend. 'gerade' is the normal everyday word for shapes, paths, or lines. 'linear' sounds more factual or technical and is often used when describing a progression or a fixed sequence. For a simple road or a board, people usually say 'gerade'. For a plan, process, or diagram, 'linear' often sounds more precise.
linear
Zur besseren Planung verläuft der Kurs linear von einfachen zu schweren Themen.
For better planning, the course progresses linearly from easy to difficult topics.
gerade
Samir zeichnet eine gerade Linie auf das Papier.
Samir draws a straight line on the paper.
In real life
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