a steep trajectory

USAGE SUMMARY

"a steep trajectory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a metaphor to describe a situation that is quickly changing or developing in a dramatic way. For example, "His career has been rocketing upwards as he followed a steep trajectory to the top."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"This institution has been on a steep trajectory," she said of Syracuse.

The New York Times

Since the 1980s, the Department for Transport has consistently forecast traffic growth along a steep trajectory.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the last few years, the company has been on a steep trajectory.

The New York Times

He believes that Silicon Valley is mission control for mankind, which is therefore on a steep trajectory toward perfection.

The New Yorker

He believes that Silicon Valley is mission control for mankind and, therefore, on a steep trajectory toward perfection.

The New Yorker

Out on a sandy lot turned silver by moonlight, a mortar crew adjusted the angle of its weapon for a steep trajectory — the Islamic State was just a few blocks away.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Middle-aged adults (<65) had a steeper trajectory of apathy than older adults (≥65).

Parkinsonism & Related Disorders

"The kids were on a steeper trajectory for higher B.M.I. before the parent's surgery," Dr. Morton said.

The New York Times

But by living at home, he is able to save $1,500 to $2,000 each month, which allows his net worth to grow at a steeper trajectory than it would otherwise.

The New York Times - Magazine

When firing the same shell, the 16 in/45 Mark 6 had a slight advantage over the 16 in/50 Mark 7 when hitting deck armor a shell from a 45 cal gun would be slower, meaning that it would have a steeper trajectory as it descended.

Wikipedia

Interestingly, when firing the same conventional shell, the 16 /45 caliber Mark 6 gun used by the fast battleships of the and es had a slight advantage over the 16 /50 caliber Mark 7 gun when hitting deck armor a shell from a 45 cal gun would be slower, meaning that it would have a steeper trajectory as it descended.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a steep trajectory" to describe rapid progress or decline in quantifiable metrics such as sales, career growth, or disease progression. It provides a strong visual metaphor.

Common error

While "steep" often implies upward movement, remember it simply means a sharp angle. Use "a steep trajectory" for sharp declines too, like "a steep downward trajectory in sales."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a steep trajectory" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used metaphorically to describe a rapidly changing or developing situation. It indicates the direction and pace of change, whether positive or negative.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a steep trajectory" is a noun phrase used to describe something rapidly changing or developing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used metaphorically, and our analysis supports that it is commonly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating its versatility across different types of content. It's crucial to remember that the word "steep" denotes a sharp angle and doesn't necessarily imply positive growth. To ensure clarity and accuracy, it's helpful to consider phrases like "a rapid ascent" or "a sharp increase" as alternatives to the query depending on your intent and the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rapid ascent

Focuses on upward movement or progress that is happening quickly.

a sharp increase

Emphasizes the magnitude of the rise in quantity or intensity.

a quick climb

Highlights a fast and continuous upward trend.

a fast-paced development

Indicates rapid changes and progress in a certain area.

an accelerated growth

Stresses the increasing rate of expansion or development.

a soaring trend

Suggests a dramatic and continuous rise, often in a positive direction.

a skyrocketing rise

Implies an extremely rapid and significant increase.

a swift upturn

Indicates a quick and positive change in direction or condition.

an exponential surge

Describes a very rapid increase where the rate of increase is also increasing.

a marked improvement

Focuses on a noticeable and positive change in quality or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "a steep trajectory" in a sentence?

You can use "a steep trajectory" to describe something that is increasing or decreasing rapidly. For instance, "The company's profits followed "a steep trajectory" after the new marketing campaign".

What's the difference between "a steep trajectory" and "a gradual trajectory"?

"A steep trajectory" implies a rapid and significant change, while "a gradual trajectory" suggests a slow and steady change. The key difference lies in the rate of change.

What are some synonyms for "a steep trajectory"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a rapid ascent", "a sharp increase", or "an accelerated growth", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a steep trajectory" only used for positive developments?

No, "a steep trajectory" can describe both positive and negative developments. It simply denotes a rapid change, whether it's an increase or a decrease. For example, "The patient experienced "a steep decline" in health" indicates a negative change.