nonlinear

/ˌnɑnˈlɪniər/
adjective
  1. Not arranged in a straight line or in a simple, predictable sequence; involving complex relationships where effects are not proportional to causes.
    • Climate change involves many nonlinear feedback loops.
    • Nonlinear equations are harder to solve than linear ones.
    • The movie's nonlinear plot jumps between different time periods.
  2. In storytelling or media: not following a chronological or straightforward order.
    • Many video games offer nonlinear gameplay, letting players choose their own path.
    • The novel uses a nonlinear narrative, starting at the end and working backward.
    • Her nonlinear memoir weaves together memories from different decades.
Synonyms
What does "nonlinear" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean