a parabolic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a parabolic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that has the shape or characteristics of a parabola, often in mathematical or scientific contexts. Example: "The trajectory of the projectile followed a parabolic path, illustrating the principles of physics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

So working in a parabolic focal point system.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The road across Big Bend Dam provides a parabolic view of the Missouri.

The New York Times - Sports

A parabolic pump called the Daffodil appears to have been conceived in a fun-house mirror.

The New Yorker

The plant, at Alvarado, Badajoz, in the west of the country, is a parabolic trough.

The Guardian

The device uses a parabolic dish to concentrate light from the sun, producing heat.

MIT Technology Review

Fig 1c shows the circular band contour of a parabolic (or linear) energy spectrum.

Nature

A circular or elliptical paraboloid surface may be used as a parabolic reflector.

Britannica

Video captured during an attempt to sequence DNA in microgravity during a parabolic airplane flight.

MIT Technology Review

In June 2015, Hedgehog was tested on a parabolic flight to simulate microgravity and performed well.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Learn how a parabolic-trough solar thermal power plant works.

MIT Technology Review

We dove straight down into Turn 4, a parabolic-shaped left-hand loop known as Whiteface Turn.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing trajectories or reflective surfaces, use "a parabolic" to accurately convey the specific mathematical shape of a parabola. This ensures clarity in technical and scientific contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a parabolic" loosely to describe any curve. Ensure that the shape genuinely adheres to the mathematical definition of a parabola, where every point is equidistant from a fixed point (the focus) and a fixed line (the directrix).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a parabolic" functions as an adjectival phrase, where "a" is an article and "parabolic" is an adjective modifying a noun. It describes a quality or characteristic, indicating that something has the form or properties of a parabola, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

32%

Academia

26%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a parabolic" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjectival phrase that describes something having the shape or characteristics of a parabola. According to Ludwig, it is commonly found in scientific, news, and academic contexts, indicating its role in precise and technical communication. When using this phrase, it's important to understand the specific mathematical definition of a parabola to ensure accurate application. Alternatives like "curved" or "U-shaped" can be used in less formal settings or when the precise parabolic shape is not critical. The variety of examples and sources demonstrates its broad applicability in technical and descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a curved

Uses a general term for a non-straight shape.

a U-shaped

Specifies a particular curved shape resembling the letter U.

a bow-shaped

Emphasizes the resemblance to a bow.

an arc-like

Highlights the arcing nature of the shape.

a crescent-shaped

Focuses on a specific curved shape resembling a crescent moon.

a concave

Indicates a curve that is inward.

a convex

Indicates a curve that is outward.

a sweeping

Suggests a broad and continuous curve.

a catenary

Describes a curve formed by a hanging chain or cable.

a hyperbolic

Uses a different type of curve with distinct mathematical properties.

FAQs

How can I use "a parabolic" in a sentence?

The phrase "a parabolic" is used to describe something that has the shape of a parabola. For example, "The ball followed "a parabolic trajectory" when thrown".

What's the difference between "a parabolic" and "a curved" shape?

"A curved" shape is a general term for anything that isn't straight. "A parabolic" shape specifically refers to a shape that follows the precise mathematical definition of a parabola.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "a parabolic"?

The term "a parabolic" is most appropriate in mathematical, scientific, or engineering contexts where the precise shape of a parabola is relevant. This could include describing trajectories, reflector shapes, or mathematical functions.

What are some examples of objects that commonly have "a parabolic" shape?

Examples include "a parabolic mirror" in a telescope, the path of a projectile in physics (ignoring air resistance), and certain antenna designs.