trajectory
/trædʤikəri/
Definition
- 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.
Noun
-
the path followed by an object moving through space
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