1.
low-dimensional; having few dimensions
In mathematics and physics, having a small number of dimensions, as opposed to high-dimensional. Used of spaces, data, and models.
二次元は三次元より低次元だ。
Two dimensions are lower-dimensional than three.
データを低次元に圧縮する。
Compress the data into fewer dimensions.
この手法は低次元の空間を数学的に扱う。
This method treats low-dimensional space mathematically.
2.
low-level; unsophisticated; petty; base
Figuratively, describing thinking, arguments, disputes, or content as base, crude, or beneath serious attention. Usually derogatory and most often used as the na-adjective 低次元な.
そんな低次元な争いはやめよう。
Let's stop such a petty quarrel.
議論が低次元すぎて話にならない。
The discussion is too low-level to be worth having.
感情にまかせた批判は低次元だと言われても仕方がない。
Criticism driven by emotion can't complain if it's called low-level.
Formed from 低 (low) + 次元 (dimension). The antonym is 高次元.
USAGE:
- Sense 1 is a neutral technical term in math and science.
- Sense 2 is a common, clearly negative judgment, almost always in the form 低次元な: 低次元な話 (a base topic), 低次元な発想 (unsophisticated thinking).
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 低俗: vulgar, lowbrow — overlaps with sense 2 but stresses coarse taste rather than a lack of intellectual level.