Relativity
The theory, formulated by Albert Einstein, that space and time are relative rather than absolute concepts.
Einstein's theories of Special and General Relativity revolutionized our understanding of space, time, gravity, and the universe. Special Relativity deals with the relationship between space and time for objects moving at constant speeds; General Relativity extends this to include acceleration and gravity, describing gravity as the curvature of spacetime.
Word relationships
- relativism: Relativism is a philosophical concept that truth or morality is relative to a particular viewpoint; relativity is a specific scientific theory.
- absolutism: The belief in absolute truths or principles, contrasting with the relative nature of space and time in Einstein's theory.
Commonly confused with
- Quantum: Relativity deals with the very large (gravity, space-time); Quantum mechanics deals with the very small (atoms, particles).
Word family
- relative (adjective): considered in relation to something else; dependent on something else
- relativist (noun): a person who believes in relativism or relativity
Collocations
- special relativity
- general relativity
- theory of relativity
- principle of relativity
Example sentences
- "Einstein's theory of relativity showed that time can pass at different rates for observers in different frames of reference." Discussing a groundbreaking scientific theory.
- "One of the most mind-bending aspects of relativity is that mass and energy are interchangeable, as expressed by E=mc²." Explaining a consequence of the theory.
- "The development of the theory of relativity fundamentally changed our understanding of the cosmos and the laws of physics." In a historical context.
Memory hook
Think of 'RELATIVity' as how things are 'RELATive' to each other, especially when moving very fast. Space-time is relative
When not to use
This is a highly specific scientific term. Avoid using it loosely in casual conversation to simply mean 'it depends' or 'everything is relative' without referring to the physics theory.
Fun facts
- Einstein's theories of relativity were published in 1905 (Special Relativity) and 1915 (General Relativity).
- GPS satellites rely on the principles of relativity to maintain accuracy, as time runs slightly differently for them than for us on Earth.
Explore more words
relativism, theory, metaphysical, light-year, universe, black hole
Also appears in
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.