# symmetry

/ˈsɪmətɹi/ (US) · /sˈɪmətɹi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/symmetry
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. physical balance

noun · CEFR B2

the quality of having two halves that are exactly the same size and shape.

For teachers: the exact correspondence in size, form, and arrangement of parts on opposite sides of a plane, line, or point.

- The butterfly's wings were beautiful because of their perfect symmetry.
- The architect relied on bilateral symmetry to create a sense of stability and grandeur in the cathedral's facade.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when discussing the abstract concept.

### 2. aesthetic harmony

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a balanced and pleasing arrangement of different parts.

For teachers: the harmonious and beautiful proportion of the elements of a whole.

- There is a nice symmetry between the two stories in this book.
- The poet achieves a structural symmetry by opening and closing the work with the same haunting imagery of the sea.

Teaching tip: In academic writing, this sense often describes the balance between two ideas or arguments rather than physical objects.

## Examples

- The butterfly's wings have perfect symmetry.
- Architects often use symmetry in building design to create a feeling of balance and stability.
- The mathematician explained how the underlying symmetry of the crystal structure determines its physical properties and how it interacts with light.

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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.