Facet

/ˈfæsɪt/

nounmedium📊CommonConcept
2 meanings3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

One of several sides of a cut gem; an aspect or feature of a situation, problem, or subject.

/ˈfæsɪt/

nounneutralmedium
Concept

A particular aspect or feature of something.

The report examined every facet of the industry.

💡 Simply: Imagine a sparkly diamond! Each flat side of the diamond is a facet. It's like that diamond has different sides, and each side shows a different part of the diamond. 'Facet' means a different part of something, like the different parts of a problem, or the different things that make up a person.

👶 For kids: A facet is like one side of a shape, or one part of a big thing. A diamond has many facets.

More Examples

2

The multifaceted nature of the project required careful planning.

3

We need to consider all facets of the argument.

4

Each facet of the issue was carefully analyzed by the committee.

How It's Used

General

"We considered every facet of the problem before making a decision."

Business

"The company needs to improve this facet of its operations to increase profits."

2

Each of the flat surfaces of a cut gemstone.

/ˈfæsɪt/

nounneutralmedium
Appearance

A small, plane surface (as of a cut gem)

The diamond's facets sparkled brilliantly in the light.

💡 Simply: Think of a shiny diamond! It has a bunch of flat sides that catch the light. Each of those flat sides is called a 'facet.' It’s like how the diamond sparkles because of all those flat faces!

👶 For kids: A facet is one of the little flat sides of a sparkly gem like a diamond.

More Examples

2

The sculptor carefully carved each facet of the statue.

3

The gem's many facets reflected the light beautifully.

4

The craftsman polished the facets to enhance the gem's brilliance.

How It's Used

Jewellery

"The jeweler carefully polished each facet of the diamond."

Geology

"The rock's crystal structure revealed several facets."

Tip:Think of the many planes that combine to form the surface of a gem; each is a 'facet'.

Synonyms & Antonyms

From French *facette* (diminutive of *face* 'face'), from Latin *facies*.

The term 'facet' in the context of gems has been used since the 17th century; however, it's more general meaning dates back to the late 16th century.

Memory tip

Think of a gem with many sides. Each 'facet' represents a different view or aspect.

Word Origin

LanguageFrench/Latin
Original meaning

"face or appearance"

different facetskey facetimportant facetevery faceta facet of

Common misspellings

fassetfaccetfasit

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written