What's the difference between
and
Enter two words to compare and contrast their definitions, origins, and synonyms to better understand how those words are related.

Ruler vs Dominant - What's the difference?

ruler | dominant |

As nouns the difference between ruler and dominant

is that ruler is a (usually rigid), flat, rectangular measuring or drawing device with graduations in units of measurement; a rule; a straightedge with markings; a measure while dominant is (music) the fifth major tone of a musical scale (five major steps above the note in question); thus g is the dominant of c, a of d, and so on.

As an adjective dominant is

ruling; governing; prevailing; controlling.

ruler

English

(ruler)

Noun

(en noun)
  • A (usually rigid), flat, rectangular measuring or drawing device with graduations in units of measurement; a rule; a straightedge with markings; a measure.
  • A person who rules or governs; a person who exercises dominion or controlling power over others.
  • Usage notes

    In American English, the word "ruler" is often used specifically to refer to such a measuring device that is one foot (12 inches) long. Used in contrast with "yardstick" and "meter stick."

    Synonyms

    * (measuring instrument) rule.

    Hyponyms

    * duke * emperor * Highness * king * queen * grand duke * prince * princess * monarch * tyrant * See also

    dominant

    English

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • (music) The fifth major tone of a musical scale (five major steps above the note in question); thus G is the dominant of C, A of D, and so on.
  • (music) The triad built on the dominant tone.
  • (BDSM) The dominating partner in sadomasochistic sexual activity.
  • * 2011 , Jayne Rylon, Mistress's Master (page 65)
  • His story was a fable you told dominants in training to stress the importance of comprehending the depths of your submissive's needs.

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Ruling; governing; prevailing; controlling.
  • The dominant party controlled the government.
  • * Macaulay
  • The member of a dominant race is, in his dealings with the subject race, seldom indeed fraudulent, but imperious, insolent, and cruel.
  • Predominant, common, prevalent, of greatest importance.
  • The dominant plants of the Carboniferous were lycopods and early conifers.
  • * 2009 , H. Stephen Stoker, General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry , page 10
  • All other elements are mere "impurities" when their abundances are compared with those of these two dominant elements.

    Synonyms

    * imposing * prevalent

    Antonyms

    * (ruling) obedient, submissive (one who obeys''); defiant, rebellious (''one who defys )