symmetry

An arrangement where two halves have matching shapes, like a shape and its reflection in a mirror.

• The butterfly’s wings show symmetry.
• The two sides of her face have almost perfect symmetry.
• Draw a line of symmetry through the shape.

Opposites: asymmetry

Common phrases: bilateral symmetry, facial symmetry, line of symmetry

A pleasing balance between the different parts of something.

• The design has a pleasing symmetry.
• She admired the symmetry of the building’s proportions.
• The story’s beginning and ending create a sense of symmetry.

How to use it: symmetry of something (We admired the symmetry of the overall design.)

Similar words: balance, harmony

Opposites: asymmetry

Common phrases: symmetry of something, pleasing symmetry, sense of symmetry

An arrangement in which similar parts repeat around a central point or line.

• This flower has radial symmetry.
• The starfish shows symmetry around its centre.
• The pattern’s rotational symmetry makes it look unchanged after a turn.

How to use it: symmetry around something (The design has symmetry around a central point.)

Opposites: asymmetry

Common phrases: radial symmetry, rotational symmetry, symmetry around something