The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

bifurcation

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Dictionary definition of bifurcation

The division of something into two separate parts, branches, or paths.
"Philosophical debates usually result in a bifurcation of opinions."

Detailed meaning of bifurcation

It is a process of splitting or forking, where a single entity or system separates into two distinct and often divergent entities or systems. Bifurcation is a common phenomenon in various fields such as mathematics, biology, physics, and engineering. In mathematics, bifurcation refers to a change in the behavior of a system as its parameters change, resulting in the emergence of multiple solutions or outcomes. In biology, bifurcation can occur in the branching of blood vessels, nerves, or other structures. In physics, bifurcation can refer to the splitting of a beam of light or the branching of sound waves. Understanding bifurcation is essential in many areas, as it helps explain complex systems and predict their behavior in different scenarios.

Example sentences containing bifurcation

1. The bifurcation in the river led explorers to two different landscapes.
2. Life's journey often presents a sudden bifurcation, demanding a choice.
3. The bifurcation of the tree limb was home to two distinct bird species.
4. At the bifurcation, the traveler hesitated, pondering both paths.
5. Scientific advancements can sometimes lead to a bifurcation in ethical views.
6. The highway's bifurcation made him pause; each route had its own allure.

History and etymology of bifurcation

The noun 'bifurcation' has its origins in Latin. It is formed from the combination of two Latin words: 'bi,' meaning 'two,' and 'furca,' which translates to 'fork' or 'branch.' In essence, 'bifurcation' etymologically conveys the idea of dividing something into two separate parts or branches, much like a fork in a road or a tree splitting into two main branches. This word captures the concept of a divergence or separation into two distinct paths or directions. The etymology of 'bifurcation' highlights the clear and fundamental division implied by the term, emphasizing the idea of branching into two separate entities or trajectories.

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Further usage examples of bifurcation

1. Historical events often cause a bifurcation in cultural narratives.
2. His emotions faced a bifurcation: joy for the present, sorrow for the past.
3. Bifurcation in strategies can diversify risks in business ventures.
4. The bifurcation of light through the prism created a spectrum of colors.
5. After years together, they felt a painful bifurcation in their aspirations.
6. The bifurcation in the old manuscript suggested two different authors.
7. Nature's bifurcation in evolution leads to diverse and unique species.
8. The bifurcation in the cave system concealed two different ecosystems.
9. The story's bifurcation allowed readers to choose their own adventure.
10. The bifurcation of the river into two streams created a beautiful landscape.
11. His thoughts underwent a bifurcation: logic on one side, intuition on the other.
12. The bifurcation of the digital market opened opportunities for new entrants.
13. Political upheavals often result in the bifurcation of power structures.
14. The scientist observed a bifurcation in the data, revealing two patterns.
15. As technology grows, there's a notable bifurcation in societal adaptation rates.
16. The novel's bifurcation into parallel plots intrigued its readership.
17. In the garden, the bifurcation of pathways led to rose beds and lilies.
18. The cultural festival displayed a bifurcation of traditional and modern arts.
19. The bifurcation of her duties meant balancing leadership with mentorship.