learning curve

American  

noun

1. Education. a graphic representation of progress in learning measured against the time required to achieve mastery.

2. the process of learning upon which such a representation is based.

   Her new job has a steep learning curve.

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learning curve British  

noun

1. a graphical representation of progress in learning

   I'm still only half way up the learning curve

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Example Sentences

"The early days were not easy. There were disease outbreaks, inconsistent yields, and the steep learning curve that comes with managing living systems," she remembers.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

In every way, it seems too early in the engineering and learning curve to risk humans.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 10, 2026

It's been a steep learning curve for Kaynes Semicon.

From BBC • Jan. 26, 2026

Hadjar was also on hand for Thursday's splashy big reveal, as was Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies, who said the sweeping regulatory changes and a new engine would make for a steep learning curve.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

Now there was so much more to ask, so much more to understand, and because it was all new, she felt like she was right there on the learning curve with the engineers.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly