One-directional

Describing a process, system, or flow that proceeds or is designed to proceed in a single, predetermined direction, without the possibility or intention of significant deviation or reversal. It implies a lack of reciprocity, feedback, or the ability to move or operate in the opposite direction. This can apply to physical movement, communication, data transfer, or any other type of process. A one-directional system is often simpler in design but may be less adaptable or responsive to changing circumstances or user needs compared to bidirectional or multi-directional alternatives.

One-directional meaning with examples

• The new highway's design was strictly one-directional, with no opportunities for U-turns or cross-traffic to enhance traffic flow. This streamlined approach reduced congestion, but also required drivers to plan their routes meticulously, potentially adding travel time and complexity. Accidents, while rare, were devastating due to the speed.
• The old communication system was one-directional, allowing the company headquarters to send directives to the branches but preventing the branches from directly communicating feedback or issues. This led to a lack of responsiveness from the center, making the branches feel disconnected, and reduced overall operational efficiency due to the inability to communicate.
• Early radio broadcasts operated as one-directional communication: Signals were sent from the transmitter to the receivers, but there was no return signal. This allowed for widespread dissemination of information, but precluded any interaction between the broadcaster and the audience, preventing direct feedback from being received.
• The data pipeline was designed to be one-directional, pushing information from the database to the reporting system. While efficient in its simplicity and designed for speed, this limited the ability to pull live reports or make immediate changes based on real-time data changes, creating potential analysis delays.