submatrix: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “submatrix” mean?
A smaller matrix obtained from a larger matrix by deleting some of its rows and/or columns.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A smaller matrix obtained from a larger matrix by deleting some of its rows and/or columns.
Any matrix that forms a component part of a larger matrix, typically defined by selecting a contiguous block of entries. In computing/data contexts, can refer to a subset of a larger data array.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling follows standard conventions ('analyse a submatrix' UK, 'analyze a submatrix' US).
Connotations
None beyond its technical meaning.
Frequency
Equally rare outside technical fields in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “submatrix” in a Sentence
submatrix of [matrix]submatrix formed by [rows/columns]submatrix corresponding toVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “submatrix” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to submatrix the covariance table to analyse the relevant variables.
American English
- The algorithm will submatrix the data array to improve processing speed.
adjective
British English
- The submatrix operations were crucial for the proof.
American English
- We performed a submatrix analysis on the dataset.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Extremely rare. Might appear in highly technical data analysis reports.
Academic
Common in mathematics, computer science, physics, and engineering papers dealing with linear algebra, data structures, or numerical methods.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in linear algebra, matrix theory, scientific computing, and machine learning (e.g., manipulating submatrices for efficiency).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “submatrix”
- Using 'submatrix' to refer to any small matrix (it must be derived from a larger one).
- Misspelling as 'sub-matrix' (the standard form is one word).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is standardly written as one word: 'submatrix'.
Primarily in mathematics (linear algebra), computer science, data science, engineering, and any field that uses matrix computations.
No. A submatrix must be obtainable by deleting specific rows and/or columns from a specified larger matrix. A random small matrix is not a submatrix unless it has that derived relationship.
The standard plural is 'submatrices' (following the pattern of matrix/matrices). 'Submatrixes' is less common.
A smaller matrix obtained from a larger matrix by deleting some of its rows and/or columns.
Submatrix is usually formal, technical in register.
Submatrix: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsʌb.meɪ.trɪks/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌb.meɪ.trɪks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SUBmarine as a smaller vessel operating within a larger body of water. A SUBmatrix is a smaller matrix operating within a larger one.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MATRIX IS A CONTAINER (from which a submatrix is extracted).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'submatrix'?