Definition

Not lying on the same straight line; referring to points that do not all fall on a single line.

Example

The three points are noncollinear, forming a triangle instead of a straight line.

Conversation

Did you understand the concept of noncollinear points in class today?

Not really, can you explain it to me?

Sure! It means that the points don’t all lie on the same straight line.

Got it! That makes it much clearer for me.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Noncollinear → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "collinear" (from Latin "collineare", meaning to lie in the same straight line). The word "noncollinear" describes points that do not lie on the same straight line.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being used to describe points that do not lie 'in the same line' ('collinear'). This helps you remember that noncollinear means points that are not aligned in a straight line.

Visually Confused Words