Two-dimensional

Referring to something that has only two measurable dimensions: length and width, existing in a flat plane or surface, and lacking depth or thickness. This often implies a representation or simplification of a three-dimensional object or concept, where depth is either absent or visually implied. It can also describe limitations in perspective, understanding, or character development, portraying a lack of complexity or nuance. In visual arts, it often focuses on creating an illusion on a flat surface, like painting on canvas. The term emphasizes the inherent flatness or superficiality inherent in the subject, whether physical or abstract. The implications stretch across disciplines like mathematics, art, and literature, highlighting simplicity and its inherent strengths and weaknesses.

Two-dimensional meaning with examples

• The museum exhibit featured ancient maps rendered in a two-dimensional style, displaying the world on a flat surface. The artists used only length and width to convey landmasses, showing a fascinating, albeit simplified, view of the world's layout. Visitors could follow pathways, visualizing an historical account without the depth of later works.
• Using basic shapes, the computer program generated a two-dimensional representation of a house, simplifying it into rectangles and triangles. The program was able to output an image showing a side view, with no depth or perspective, a flat outline without the complexity of a building. The simplified design allowed for faster processing.
• The plot of the novel suffered from having two-dimensional characters; their motivations were shallow, and they lacked the depth and complexity needed for a compelling narrative. The cardboard personas reduced the reader's engagement because they were too simplistic, lacking the intricacies, or internal conflicts common in complex characters.
• In mathematics, the concept of a two-dimensional plane, often denoted as the Cartesian plane, is fundamental. It serves as a basis for understanding geometric principles and is fundamental in algebra. The idea of working in two dimensions is key for visualizing equations, or graphing functions
• Critics dismissed the video game's graphics as being two-dimensional, criticizing their lack of detail, limited animations, and overall flatness. These detractors missed an experience that might, in other ways be exciting, so the artistic constraints were secondary to the game design. There were other facets that are less about visuals.