resolution
rez-uh-LOO-shun
/ˌrez.əˈluː.ʃən/
The degree of detail visible in a medical image.
Higher resolution allows doctors to see smaller anomalies.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'resolvere' (to loosen or untie). In optics, it means to 'un-tie' or separate two points that are close together so they can be seen individually.
Word relationships
- clarity: Clarity is a general term; resolution is the technical measure of detail.
- sharpness: Sharpness refers to the edges; resolution refers to the total amount of detail.
- blurriness: Lack of clear definition.
Commonly confused with
- contrast: Resolution is about detail; contrast is about the difference between light and dark.
Word family
- resolve (verb): To distinguish between separate parts of an image.
Collocations
- high resolution
- spatial resolution
- image resolution
- improve resolution
Example sentences
- "The new MRI machine offers superior spatial resolution, allowing for the detection of tiny lesions." Technology review
- "Resolution is determined by the number of pixels or the frequency of the waves used." Technical manual
Memory hook
Resolution helps you 'solve' the mystery of the image. Detail that solves.
When not to use
Don't confuse with 'New Year's resolution' or 'conflict resolution'.
Fun facts
- The human eye has a resolution of about 576 megapixels.
Explore more words
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Also appears in
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