ALERT

Be aware that definitions may vary slightly between textbooks. It depends upon how the authors are going to use the definitions in their books.


For example: We have seen the definition of isosceles triangle written in two different texts like this:
  1. An isosceles triangle is a triangle with at least two sides the same length.
  2. An isosceles triangle is a triangle with exactly two sides the same length.

    *Definition one says that an equilateral triangle would also be classified as isosceles because it has three equal sides, and thus the "at least two" requirement would be satisfied.

    **Definition two says that an equilateral triangle would NOT be isosceles because it does not have EXACTLY three sides.


    SO WHICH ONE IS CORRECT? ...... Always choose the definition that is given by the authors of your class textbook. They will have written their material based upon how they have defined these terms.

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In themathlab.com dictionary we make every attempt to present understandable definitions. To help with clarity we use many illustrations and common language wherever possible. Please remember to cross reference any essential terms with your current textbook to see if it has a more specific definition.