What does “Curve” mean?
The phrase "Curve" means rejecting someone's advances, usually in a romantic or flirtatious context. When someone says they've been "curved", it means they've been rejected by someone they were interested in. This can happen in various situations, such as when someone asks another person out on a date or expresses their feelings towards them, and the other person declines or shows lack of interest.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
He tried to ask her out, but she curved him.
Example
I've been curving all the guys who approach me at the club.
Example
She curved his attempts to flirt with her in class.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Rejecting romantic or flirtatious advances
He tried to ask her out, but she curved him.
I've been curving all the guys who approach me at the club.
- 2Ignoring or dismissing someone's attempts to flirt
She curved his attempts to flirt with her in class.
He kept trying to get her attention, but she just curved him.
- 3Turning down or dismissing someone's advances
She curved his invitation to go on a date.
He tried to make a move, but she quickly curved him.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "curve" originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has since become popular in mainstream culture, particularly in the United States. It gained widespread usage through social media, music, and online communication platforms.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "curve" is typically used in a sentence to describe rejecting someone's advances, it can also be used on its own to convey the same meaning. For example, if someone asks you out and you're not interested, you might simply respond with "curve" to indicate your rejection.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "curve" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to describe rejecting someone's advances.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "curve" is commonly used by younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z. It is more prevalent among those familiar with modern slang, social media, and internet culture.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase "curve" originated in AAVE, it has gained popularity and usage beyond African American communities. It is commonly used in the United States and has also spread to other English-speaking regions through the influence of social media and popular culture.
