perspective
per·spec·tive / pərˈspektiv/ • n. 1. the art of drawing solid objects on a two-dimensional surface so as to give the right impression of their height, width, depth, and position in relation to each other when viewed from a particular point: [as adj.] a perspective drawing. See also linear perspective and aerial perspective. ∎ a picture drawn in such a way, esp. one appearing to enlarge or extend the actual space, or to give the effect of distance. ∎ a view or prospect. ∎ Geom. the relation of two figures in the same plane, such that pairs of corresponding points lie on concurrent lines, and corresponding lines meet in collinear points.2. a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view: most guidebook history is written from the editor's perspective. ∎ true understanding of the relative importance of things; a sense of proportion: we must keep a sense of perspective about what he's done.3. an apparent spatial distribution in perceived sound.PHRASES: in (or out of) perspective showing the right (or wrong) relationship between visible objects. ∎ correctly (or incorrectly) regarded in terms of relative importance: these expenses may seem high, but they need to be put into perspective.DERIVATIVES: per·spec·tiv·al / -tivəl/ adj.