# asymmetrical

/ˌeɪsəˈmɛtɹɪkəɫ/ (US) · /ˌeɪsɪmˈɛtɹɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/asymmetrical
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

having two sides that are not the same in shape, size, or arrangement. If you cut the object in half, the two parts would not match.

For teachers: having parts or aspects that are not equal or equivalent; lacking symmetry in spatial arrangement or proportion. Often used to describe physical objects, data distributions, or power dynamics.

## Examples

- She wore an asymmetrical dress with only one sleeve.
- The architect designed an asymmetrical building where the left wing was significantly taller than the right.
- The conflict was characterized by asymmetrical warfare, as the small insurgent group utilized hit-and-run tactics against the massive, conventional forces of the state military.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after 'be' or 'look', or attributively before a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.