curve
noun [ C ]
uk/kɜːv/ us GRAPHS & CHARTS
a line on a graph that shows a relationship between two sets of information, for example changes in price over time:
Copper looks like it has reached the top of its price curve.
a falling/downward curve Research spending has been on a falling curve.
a rising/upward curve
a steep/smooth/sharp curve Climate change appears to demand we put our electricity usage on a steep downward curve.
ahead of the curve
more advanced, or developing, understanding something, or reaching a point more quickly than other things or people:
The ability to speak two languages puts you ahead of the curve in the job market.
behind the curve
less advanced, or developing, understanding something, or reaching a point more slowly than other things or people:
The latest price indices are well behind the curve and have not yet picked up dramatic changes in consumer confidence.
See also
adoption curve
bell curve
demand curve
experience curve
growth curve
indifference curve
J-curve
learning curve
yield curve