Definition:Neusis Construction

Definition
A neusis construction is a technique of drawing geometric figures using only a neusis ruler and a compass.

Also known as
The word neusis can also be seen as neuseis.

Also see

 * Definition:Compass and Straightedge Construction

Historical Note
Many of the constructions performed by were neusis constructions.

Some sources suggest that (c. 440 BCE) was the first to rank compass and straightedge constructions above neusis constructions in importance.

It may have been (c. 430 BCE) who publicised the principle to use a compass and straightedge construction in preference to a neusis construction whenever possible.

uses compass and straightedge constructions exclusively.

Under, neusis was considered a last resort when all other methods of construction had failed.

By the time of, to use a neusis construction when other methods would work was considered a serious error.

Linguistic Note
The word neusis us the Greek νεῦσις, which comes from the word νεύειν (neuein) meaning incline towards. Its plural is νεύσεις (neuseis).