What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
curvature
Example
The curvature of the road made it difficult to see around the bend. [curvature: noun]
Example
The surface of the ball has a high curvature. [curvature: adjective]
curve
Example
The road curves sharply to the left up ahead. [curve: verb]
Example
The graph shows a steep curve indicating a rapid increase in sales. [curve: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Curve is more commonly used than curvature in everyday language. Curve is a more general term that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while curvature is more technical and specific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between curvature and curve?
Curvature is generally considered more formal than curve, as it is often used in technical or scientific contexts.