cross section

A sample or representation of a group or thing that shows all its typical parts or characteristics; also, a slice or cut through something to show its internal structure.

• 🇫🇷Représentation ou échantillon d'un groupe ou d'une chose montrant toutes ses parties ou caractéristiques typiques ; également coupe ou section d'un objet pour en révéler la structure interne.

1. Representative sample B2 formal

   A small group that is representative of a larger population or variety.

   • The survey included a cross section of the population.
   • The class is a cross section of students from different backgrounds.
   • The study used a cross section of industries to gather data.

   🇫🇷échantillon représentatif

2. Slice or cut B1 formal

   A surface or shape exposed by making a straight cut through something, especially at right angles to an axis.

   • The diagram shows a cross section of the human heart.
   • Geologists examined a cross section of the rock layers.
   • The cross section of the tree trunk reveals its age rings.

   🇫🇷section transversale