ambiguous case

[/æmˈbɪɡjuəs keɪs/]
nounpl: ambiguous cases
caso ambíguo
1. In trigonometry, a situation in triangle solving where given two sides and an angle opposite one of them (SSA condition), two different triangles can be constructed that satisfy the given conditions
When solving a triangle with two sides and an angle opposite one of them, you may encounter an ambiguous case with two possible solutions.
Ao resolver um triângulo com dois lados e um ângulo oposto a um deles, você pode encontrar um caso ambíguo com duas soluções possíveis.
2. More generally, any mathematical or logical situation where given conditions can lead to multiple interpretations or solutions
The problem presented an ambiguous case that required careful analysis to distinguish between valid solutions.
O problema apresentava um caso ambíguo que exigia análise cuidadosa para distinguir entre soluções válidas.
This is primarily a mathematical and educational term used in trigonometry classes in both Brazilian and American curricula. It's part of standard geometry education and holds the same meaning across English and Portuguese-speaking countries, with no significant cultural variation in usage.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
SSA conditiontwo-solution caseindeterminate case
Antonyms / Antônimos
unique solutiondeterminate case

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
caso ambíguo
standard mathematical terminology
Portugal
caso ambíguo
same as Brazilian Portuguese in mathematical contexts
Academic/International
caso ambíguo de congruência de triângulos
more formal, fully descriptive term

Related Words

law of sinestriangle inequalitysine rulecongruence

Related Idioms & Phrases

to fall into the ambiguous case
the ambiguous case paradox
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