triangulation: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal/Technical
Quick answer
What does “triangulation” mean?
The process of determining the location of a point by measuring angles to it from two known points at either end of a fixed baseline, commonly used in surveying, navigation, and geometry.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The process of determining the location of a point by measuring angles to it from two known points at either end of a fixed baseline, commonly used in surveying, navigation, and geometry.
In broader contexts, it refers to the use of multiple methods, data sources, or perspectives to cross-verify and validate findings, such as in social sciences, research, or conflict resolution.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning; usage is consistent across both dialects in technical and academic fields.
Connotations
Both associate it with accuracy and methodical analysis; in social sciences, it may connote rigorous validation.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English in business and social science contexts, but overall low frequency in general language.
Grammar
How to Use “triangulation” in a Sentence
triangulation of [noun]perform triangulationrely on triangulationVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “triangulation” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The team will triangulate the signal to locate the missing hiker.
- We need to triangulate our data from various surveys.
American English
- The researchers triangulate their findings using multiple methods.
- They'll triangulate the position using satellite technology.
adverb
British English
- The points were measured triangulationally to ensure precision.
- They approached the problem triangulationally, from different angles.
American English
- The data was analyzed triangulationally for validation.
- He argued triangulationally, citing multiple sources.
adjective
British English
- The triangulated data provided a more reliable outcome.
- We used a triangulated approach in our study.
American English
- The triangulated results confirmed our hypothesis.
- A triangulated method ensures accuracy in mapping.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in market research to validate data from multiple sources for strategic decisions.
Academic
Common in social sciences, geography, and engineering for methodological rigor in studies.
Everyday
Rare; occasionally in discussions about navigation or technology, such as smartphone apps.
Technical
Standard in surveying, cartography, and telecommunications for precise location determination.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “triangulation”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “triangulation”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “triangulation”
- Mispronouncing as 'tree-angulation' or 'tri-ang-ulation'; stress on 'ang' and 'lay'.
- Using it interchangeably with 'verification' without the spatial or methodological nuance.
- Overusing in non-technical contexts where simpler terms like 'checking' suffice.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, triangulation is also widely applied in social sciences, research methods, and even in everyday technology like GPS for validating data and improving accuracy.
Triangulation measures angles to find a point, while trilateration measures distances; both are used in positioning but with different mathematical approaches.
Yes, in relationships or conflict resolution, triangulation can refer to involving a third party to mediate or confirm information, though it may have negative connotations if used manipulatively.
In American English, it's pronounced as /traɪˌæŋɡjəˈleɪʃən/, with stress on the 'ang' and 'lay' syllables, and a soft 'g' sound.
The process of determining the location of a point by measuring angles to it from two known points at either end of a fixed baseline, commonly used in surveying, navigation, and geometry.
Triangulation is usually formal/technical in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a triangle: triangulation uses three points (two known, one unknown) to pinpoint a location, just like drawing a triangle on a map.
Conceptual Metaphor
Triangulation as a tool for finding truth by integrating multiple perspectives or sources.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of triangulation in navigation?