isomorphic
/ˌaɪ.səˈmɔː.fɪk/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Having the same shape, structure, or pattern. In math and science, two things are isomorphic when one can match the other in a clear way.
- The two graphs are isomorphic.
- These systems are not isomorphic.
- The models look different but are isomorphic.
Adinary Nuance
Isomorphic is more exact than similar or alike. It means there is a one-to-one matching in structure, not just a general resemblance. Writers use it in mathematics, biology, and computer science when they want precision. In everyday writing, similar is usually easier unless the structure matters.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- đẳng cấu
- Spanish
- isomorfo
- Chinese
- 同构的
- Japanese
- 同型の
- Korean
- 동형의
Etymology
From Greek isos meaning 'equal' and morphē meaning 'form'. It entered English through scientific and mathematical writing in the 19th century.
Common phrases
isomorphic graphsisomorphic structuresisomorphic mapping
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is isomorphic a common everyday word?
- No. It is mostly used in mathematics, science, and technical writing.
- What is the difference between isomorphic and similar?
- Similar means they look or act alike. Isomorphic means their structure matches in a precise way.
- Can I use isomorphic in business writing?
- Usually no, unless you are writing about systems, models, or technical structures.