English Reference
noun · verb

graph

n. · v.
US /ˈɡɹæf/ UK /ɡɹˈæf/ graph UK spelling graph's, graph's, graphed, graphing

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.a drawing that uses lines, bars, or curves to show how different sets of numbers or facts are related.

    n.a diagrammatic representation of data, typically illustrating the relationship between two or more variables along axes.

    Simple

    The graph shows that sales increased quickly during the summer months.

    In context

    The quarterly report included a line graph demonstrating the clear correlation between increased marketing spend and user acquisition.

    Usage

    Commonly used with verbs like 'show', 'illustrate', or 'plot'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Math

    n.a line or curve drawn on a grid to show the result of a mathematical equation.

    n.the set of points on a coordinate plane that satisfy a given functional relationship.

    Simple

    We had to draw the graph of the equation for our homework.

    In context

    Students were asked to identify the points where the graph of the quadratic function intersected the x-axis.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Math

    n.a collection of points (nodes) connected by lines (edges).

    n.a mathematical structure consisting of a set of vertices and a set of edges connecting pairs of vertices.

    Simple

    The computer uses a graph to find the shortest path between two cities.

    In context

    In graph theory, a tree is defined as a connected graph that contains no cycles.

    Usage

    Often used in the context of 'graph theory' or 'social graphs'.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Linguistics

    n.the smallest unit of a writing system, like a single letter or character.

    n.a visual representation of a grapheme; the physical shape of a character in a writing system.

    Simple

    The researcher studied how the shape of each graph changed over time.

    In context

    The distinction between a graph and a grapheme is essential for understanding the phonological basis of writing systems.

  5. 05 B1 Intermediate

    v.to draw a picture or chart that represents data or a mathematical function.

    v.to represent a set of data or a mathematical function in the form of a graph.

    Simple

    You can graph the results of your experiment to see the pattern more clearly.

    In context

    The software allows users to graph complex datasets instantly, providing various options for visual customisation.

    Usage

    This verb is transitive and requires a direct object, such as 'data' or 'results'.


Clipping of graphic formula. From 1878; verb from 1889.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated