Ahead of/behind the curve
phrase
Being more advanced than others in responding to trends, events, or conditions.
Our company's new smartphone design is ahead of the curve compared to our competition, who are still using older technologies.
Often appears as...
- stay ahead of the curve
- be ahead of the curve
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Being less advanced than others in responding to trends, events, or conditions.
Because we neglected to incorporate new technologies, our company is now behind the curve.
Often appears as...
- fall behind the curve
- be behind the curve
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Being more advanced than others in responding to trends, events, or conditions.
Our company's new smartphone design is ahead of the curve compared to our competition, who are still using older technologies.
Often appears as...
- stay ahead of the curve
- be ahead of the curve
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Being less advanced than others in responding to trends, events, or conditions.
Because we neglected to incorporate new technologies, our company is now behind the curve.
Often appears as...
- fall behind the curve
- be behind the curve
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Business Innovation
Often used in business settings to praise innovative ideas or strategies.
By investing in renewable energy, we're ahead of the curve.
Pro Tip 2/3Positive Connotation
Implies a positive judgment and is usually a compliment.
Your understanding of the new regulations puts you ahead of the curve.
Pro Tip 3/3Trend Awareness
Suggests being alert to and acting upon new trends quickly.
Fashion brands that are ahead of the curve often set the next trends.
Pro Tip 1/3Business Innovation
Often used in business settings to praise innovative ideas or strategies.
By investing in renewable energy, we're ahead of the curve.
Pro Tip 2/3Positive Connotation
Implies a positive judgment and is usually a compliment.
Your understanding of the new regulations puts you ahead of the curve.
Pro Tip 3/3Trend Awareness
Suggests being alert to and acting upon new trends quickly.
Fashion brands that are ahead of the curve often set the next trends.
Pro Tip 1/3Business Innovation
Often used in business settings to praise innovative ideas or strategies.
By investing in renewable energy, we're ahead of the curve.
Pro Tip 2/3Positive Connotation
Implies a positive judgment and is usually a compliment.
Your understanding of the new regulations puts you ahead of the curve.
Pro Tip 3/3Trend Awareness
Suggests being alert to and acting upon new trends quickly.
Fashion brands that are ahead of the curve often set the next trends.
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