it has an arc

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it has an arc" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that has a curved shape or trajectory, often in contexts like storytelling, design, or physical objects. Example: "The plot of the novel is engaging because it has an arc that keeps the reader invested in the characters' journeys."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

TV & Radio

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It has an arc".

The New York Times - Arts

It has an arc of aspiration and downfall, a charismatic glow of loucheness and violence, a spicing of espionage.

The New York Times - Books

We named it Season One because it has an arc, so it's akin to watching a season of one of your HBO favourites".

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Discursive as the performance was, it had an arc.

The New York Times - Arts

It had an arc: slow, brushed drums as the band slowly cohered; the introduction of the sad melody; a concerto's worth of talky improvising from Reggie Pace's trombone; long notes from muted brass over a quiet drum chant.

The New York Times - Arts

The book is written in the form of collage, it has a narrative arc but it's not linear.

Huffington Post

"Each episode is its own little story, its own little adventure, but the series has an arc, so it kind of acts as a miniseries".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Using a bite bar, it has an accuracy of <10 min arc, a precision of about 1 min of arc, with a sampling rate of 200 Hz.

Behavior Research Methods

But she has an arc".

The New York Times

Still, there is more to this work than special effects: it has a satisfying dramatic arc, opening with elemental mystery and culminating in a fantasia based on a Bach fugue.

The New York Times - Arts

It has a small Joan of Arc exhibit, with objects from the period and from the original castle.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a story or plot, use "it has an arc" to indicate a clear progression and resolution.

Common error

Avoid using "it has an arc" solely for literal curves. Ensure the context implies a progression or development, not just a physical shape.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it has an arc" functions as a descriptor, indicating that something possesses a defined progression or developmental path. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. This phrase is often used to describe narratives, character development, or processes with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Arts

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

TV & Radio

4%

Books

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it has an arc" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe something possessing a defined progression or developmental path. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for describing narratives, character evolutions, or processes featuring a clear beginning, middle, and end. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase communicates a dynamic and complete nature, implying transformation or structured movement. While the phrase is fairly versatile, it is helpful to remember its metaphorical nature and avoid literal misapplications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it follows a trajectory

Changes the metaphor to a path or course, focusing on the direction rather than the curve.

it exhibits a progression

Highlights the sequential nature of the development or change.

it develops progressively

Emphasizes the gradual advancement and evolution of something.

it presents a development

Shifts the focus to the unfolding or growth of something.

it unfolds gradually

Highlights the slow and steady revelation or development of something.

it contains an evolution

Focuses on the transformative aspect of the subject.

it features a storyline

Focuses specifically on the narrative aspect having a structured sequence of events.

it embodies a narrative structure

Emphasizes the framework and organization of a story or account.

it possesses a curvature

Directly references the physical or metaphorical bend or curve.

it shows a rising action

Specifically refers to the increasing intensity or conflict in a plot.

FAQs

How can I use "it has an arc" in a sentence?

You can use "it has an arc" to describe a story, a character's development, or any process that shows a clear beginning, middle, and end. For example, "The series "has an arc" that concludes in the final episode."

What's another way to say "it has an arc"?

Alternatives include "it follows a trajectory", "it develops progressively", or "it features a storyline", depending on the specific context. For example, instead of saying "the project "has an arc"", you might say "the project "follows a trajectory" of increasing complexity".

Is "it has an arc" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it has an arc" is grammatically correct. It is a standard English phrase used to describe a narrative or developmental progression.

What does "it has an arc" mean in storytelling?

In storytelling, "it has an arc" means that the story or character undergoes a significant transformation or progression from the beginning to the end. There's a clear sense of development and resolution.