sine: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Academic/Technical
Quick answer
What does “sine” mean?
A trigonometric function equal to the ratio of the side opposite a given angle (in a right triangle) to the hypotenuse.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A trigonometric function equal to the ratio of the side opposite a given angle (in a right triangle) to the hypotenuse.
A fundamental periodic wave function in mathematics, physics, and engineering; also, in pre-modern Latin, "without" (as in sine die).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in mathematical usage. Minor spelling conventions in derivative terms: 'sine wave' (both), 'sinusoidal' (both).
Connotations
Purely technical and neutral in both varieties.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general discourse, high in STEM fields. Identical usage frequency across varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “sine” in a Sentence
the sine of [angle]sine([angle])a sine wave of [frequency]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sine” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The sinusoidal pattern is clear.
- A pure sine tone was emitted.
American English
- The signal had a sine-wave component.
- It produces a sine output.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used, except potentially in 'sine die' in formal adjournments.
Academic
Core term in mathematics, physics, and engineering courses.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Might be encountered in DIY electronics or audio discussions.
Technical
Fundamental term in signal processing, acoustics, electrical engineering, and pure mathematics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sine”
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sine”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sine”
- Misspelling as 'sign'.
- Mispronouncing as /sɪn/ (like the moral transgression).
- Incorrectly stating 'sine' = adjacent/hypotenuse (that's cosine).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a technical term primarily used in mathematics, physics, and engineering. It is very rare in everyday conversation.
'Sine' is a mathematical function. 'Sign' is a much more common word meaning a notice, symbol, or indication. They are pronounced the same (/saɪn/), which can cause confusion in writing.
It is a Latin phrase adopted into English, meaning "an essential condition" or "a thing that is absolutely necessary." It is unrelated to the mathematical sine function.
No, 'sine' is exclusively a noun (and sometimes a related adjective, e.g., 'sine wave'). It is not used as a verb in modern English.
A trigonometric function equal to the ratio of the side opposite a given angle (in a right triangle) to the hypotenuse.
Sine is usually academic/technical in register.
Sine: in British English it is pronounced /saɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /saɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “sine qua non (Latin: an essential condition)”
- “sine die (Latin: without a day, indefinitely)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
SOH CAH TOA: Sine = Opposite / Hypotenuse. Remember 'Silly Old Harry Caught A Herring Trawling Off America' for SOH.
Conceptual Metaphor
WAVE, OSCILLATION, RATIO, PERIODICITY
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a correct use of 'sine'?