trajectory

/trædʤikəri/

Thân thiện

The ball follows a high, arcing trajectory over the field.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • The path followed by an object moving through space: This is the primary meaning, describing the curved or straight line that a body, such as a projectile or a celestial body, traces as it moves under the influence of forces like gravity or propulsion.
   • A course of development or a path of progress: Used metaphorically to describe the planned or likely course of a process, career, event, or situation over time.

Usage Examples

• Literal Path:
  • Scientists calculated the rocket's trajectory to ensure it would enter orbit correctly.
  • The basketball's perfect trajectory led to a swish through the net.
• Metaphorical Course:
  • Her career has been on an upward trajectory since she graduated.
  • The company's financial trajectory suggests strong growth in the coming years.

Advanced Usage

• "to be on a trajectory": To be following a particular course or path of development.
  • The nation's economy is on a positive trajectory.
• "to alter/change the trajectory of": To significantly change the course or direction of something.
  • That single discovery altered the trajectory of modern medicine.

Variants and Related Words

• Trajectorial (adj): Pertaining to or of the nature of a trajectory. (Technical term)
• Ballistic trajectory: The path of an object that is launched and then moves only under the influence of gravity and air resistance.

Synonyms

• Path: A general term for a route or course along which something moves.
• Course: The route or direction followed by something.
• Arc: A curved path, often part of a trajectory.
• Flight path: The planned course of an aircraft or spacecraft.

Related Phrases

• Career trajectory: The progression and path of a person's professional life.
  • He discussed his unexpected career trajectory during the interview.
• Growth trajectory: The pattern or rate of increase or development over time.
  • The startup has a steep growth trajectory.

Idioms and Figurative Use

• "On a collision trajectory": Figuratively describing two entities (e.g., people, ideas, companies) whose paths are leading them toward a direct conflict or confrontation.
  • The two politicians were on a collision trajectory during the debate.
• "Set a new trajectory": To establish a new and different course for future development.
  • The peace treaty set a new trajectory for diplomatic relations in the region.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the path followed by an object moving through space

Từ đồng nghĩa

• flight