curve /kɜːv/ CET4 TEM4 ( curving, curved, curves )

• 1. 

  N-COUNT A curve is a smooth, gradually bending line, for example, part of the edge of a circle. 曲线

  例：

  ...the curve of his lips.

  …他嘴唇的曲线。

• 2. 

  N-COUNT You can refer to a change in something as a particular curve, especially when it is represented on a graph. (图表中的) 曲线

  例：

  Youth crime overall is on a slow but steady downward curve.

  青年犯罪总体上呈一个缓慢但持续下降的曲线。

• 3. 

  → see also learning curve

• 4. 

  V-T/V-I If something curves, or if someone or something curves it, it has the shape of a curve. 使弯曲; 变弯

  例：

  Her spine curved.

  她的脊柱弯了。

  例：

  ...a knife with a slightly curving blade.

  …一把刀刃略弯的刀。

• 5. 

  V-I If something curves, it moves in a curve, for example, through the air. 沿曲线运动

  例：

  The ball curved strangely in the air.

  球在空中划出奇怪的弧线。

• 6. 

  PHRASE If someone throws you a curve or throws you a curve ball, they surprise you by doing something that you do not expect. 给某人惊喜 [美国英语]

  例：

  At the last minute, I threw them a curve ball by saying, "We're going to bring spouses."

  在最后一刻，我给了他们一个惊喜，说：“我们会带配偶。”