Curve: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used when referring to a continuous and smooth bending line without sharp angles. It can be used in mathematical contexts, road descriptions, and design.

• The road makes a gentle curve through the forest.
• Mathematicians are studying the elegant curve of this graph.

Typically used when something is forced to change its shape or direction abruptly. Common in describing roads, objects, or the body. Negative connotations can arise if it implies something is being deformed.

• The river takes a sharp bend here.
• She bent the wire into the desired shape.

Used to describe a part of a circle or any other curve. Often seen in geometry, architecture, and storytelling (such as describing a character's development).

• The rainbow formed a beautiful arc across the sky.
• The plot of the movie follows the protagonist’s emotional arc.

Often used to describe a change in direction, especially in navigation or movement. Can also be figurative, indicating changes in situations or conversations.

• Take the next left turn after the traffic light.
• His sudden turn in attitude surprised everyone.

Curve is often used to describe a smooth, continuous line that changes direction gradually.

• The road ahead has a sharp curve
• She drew a beautiful curve on the paper

Bend refers to a change in direction, usually a sharper angle than a curve. It can be used for roads, pipes, or even parts of the body.

• There's a dangerous bend in the river
• He had to bend down to pick up the toy

Arch is commonly used to describe a structure with a curved shape, often found in architecture.

• The ancient arch stood tall at the city's entrance
• She admired the arch of the bridge

Swirl describes a spiral or twisting motion, often used when talking about liquids, smoke, or even emotions.

• The coffee had a beautiful swirl of cream
• Emotions began to swirl inside her