learning curve
Americannoun
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Education. a graphic representation of progress in learning measured against the time required to achieve mastery.
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the process of learning upon which such a representation is based.
Her new job has a steep learning curve.
noun
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Parents often face a steep, expensive learning curve when navigating youth sports with older children, overscheduling them and committing developmental mistakes.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 2, 2026
But she also faced a steep learning curve as a first-time candidate.
From Slate ● Aug. 26, 2026
Many experienced homeowners will know there’s a steep learning curve that can include financial surprises.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 15, 2026
Wallace said he had always been a keen photographer and had been on a learning curve with the tech involved in capturing outer space, including galaxies and nebula.
From BBC ● Aug. 13, 2026
It wasn’t the kind of place that would exhibit particular patience for anyone, male or female, who took too long to scale the learning curve.
From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.