wavy contours

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wavy contours" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe shapes or lines that have a curvy or undulating appearance, often in artistic or design contexts. Example: "The painting features wavy contours that create a sense of movement and fluidity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Arts

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

An early island culture known as Jomon was producing wafer-thin body ornaments from animal bone, though their masterworks, to our eyes, are earthenware vessels with snakeskinlike textures and flanged lips with the wavy contours of aquatic plants.

The New York Times - Arts

Brooks Atkinson of the New York Times described the "commendable abandon" of her scantily clad rendition of Rita Marlowe in the play as "a platinum-pated movie siren with the wavy contours of Marilyn Monroe".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Distal femora are enlarged, and periostitis is visible as a wavy contour (arrows) of the outer cortex.

Insights into Imaging

The transforming of coating surface from smooth to wavy contour represented the phase evolution phenomenon by the crystallization and precipitation in the Ni P Al–W coating.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Abnormal shape was defined as an irregular, wavy contour of the ACL.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

The wavy red curve represents an isodensity contour, when LSWS is present.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Its shape is wavy.

WikiHow

The Contour Crafter can print both straight and wavy lines, with walls designed with an internal cavity system for insulation and extra strength.

BBC

Fluid facades, watery, reflective surfaces, billowing skylines, serpentine skylights, wavy cutouts: these devices recall by turns the curves of human anatomy, the snaking contours of American highways, clouds, fog and the vegetable curls of Art Nouveau.

The New York Times - Arts

The streamline contours are obtained over surfaces with different shapes, including circular concave, circular convex, triangular concave, triangular convex, regular sinusoidal wavy and irregular sinusoidal wavy, are obtained.

Computers & Mathematics with Applications

Black, wavy hair.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing natural forms or artistic representations, use "wavy contours" to convey a sense of fluidity and organic shape.

Common error

While "wavy contours" works well for artistic or natural descriptions, it may be less appropriate in highly technical or scientific contexts where precision is paramount. Consider more specific terms like "sinusoidal" or "undulating" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wavy contours" functions as a descriptive element, modifying a noun by specifying the shape or form it exhibits. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's considered correct and usable. The adjective "wavy" describes the nature of the "contours."

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Wiki

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wavy contours" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe shapes or outlines characterized by curves and undulations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for use in written English, especially when aiming to convey a sense of movement or fluidity. While its frequency is relatively rare, it finds application across diverse fields such as arts and sciences. When writing, ensure it aligns with the context and level of formality required, and consider alternatives like "undulating outlines" or "curvilinear shapes" for enhanced precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undulating outlines

Replaces "wavy" with "undulating", emphasizing a more rhythmic wave-like pattern. "Contours" remains the same, focusing on the outline or shape.

curvilinear shapes

Uses "curvilinear" to highlight the curved nature of the shapes, replacing "wavy". "Contours" is replaced by "shapes", broadening the description.

sinuous forms

"Sinuous" evokes a more flowing and graceful curve compared to "wavy". "Contours" is substituted with "forms", altering the visual imagery.

meandering lines

Emphasizes the winding and turning nature of the lines, differing from the simpler "wavy". "Contours" is replaced by "lines", focusing on linear elements.

serpentine edges

"Serpentine" suggests a snake-like curve, adding a specific visual quality. "Contours" becomes "edges", pinpointing the outer boundary.

rippling surfaces

Describes the effect on a surface rather than just the outline, bringing a sense of movement to the description.

irregular curves

Focuses on the uneven and non-uniform nature of the curves, offering a less stylized image than "wavy".

scalloped borders

Specifies a series of curves resembling scallops, bringing a decorative aspect to the description.

wiggling paths

"Wiggling" suggests a more rapid and irregular movement than "wavy". "Contours" changes to "paths", indicating a route or direction.

twisting outlines

"Twisting" suggests a more complex and rotational curvature than a simple wave. It maintains the focus on the external boundary.

FAQs

How can I use "wavy contours" in a sentence?

You can use "wavy contours" to describe the shape of objects or lines that have a wave-like appearance. For example, "The artist used "wavy contours" to depict the movement of the water."

What's a good substitute for "wavy contours"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives such as "undulating outlines", "curvilinear shapes", or "sinuous forms".

Is "wavy contours" appropriate for scientific writing?

While acceptable, "wavy contours" might be less precise than alternatives like "sinusoidal patterns" or "undulating surfaces" in some scientific contexts. The best choice depends on the level of detail required.

What kind of imagery does "wavy contours" evoke?

"Wavy contours" generally bring to mind images of flowing water, organic shapes, or artistic representations that emphasize movement and fluidity.