conˈvexity: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Formal / Academic
Quick answer
What does “conˈvexity” mean?
The quality or state of having a surface or shape that curves outward like the exterior of a sphere or circle.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The quality or state of having a surface or shape that curves outward like the exterior of a sphere or circle.
In finance, a measure of the curvature in the relationship between bond prices and bond yields, or more generally, any measure of curvature or a condition of being curved outwards.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Minor potential variation in financial jargon contexts depending on regional markets.
Connotations
Neutral and precise in both regions.
Frequency
Low frequency in general language, but standard in technical domains in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “conˈvexity” in a Sentence
the convexity of [surface/object][adjective] convexityconvexity in [mathematical function/financial instrument]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “conˈvexity” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [No direct verb form. The related verb is 'to convex' but it is extremely rare.]
American English
- [No direct verb form. The related verb is 'to convex' but it is extremely rare.]
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverb form. 'Convexly' is technically possible but highly uncommon.]
American English
- [No standard adverb form. 'Convexly' is technically possible but highly uncommon.]
adjective
British English
- The mirror had a distinctly convex surface.
- They needed a convex lens for the experiment.
American English
- The dashboard featured a convex display for better visibility.
- A convex shape is often used for stadium roofs.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In finance, particularly in fixed-income markets, to describe a bond's price sensitivity to interest rate changes.
Academic
In mathematics, geometry, physics, and materials science to describe the property of a shape or surface.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used in describing lenses, mirrors, or art/design contexts.
Technical
The precise term in optics, mathematics (convex functions), and economics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “conˈvexity”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “conˈvexity”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “conˈvexity”
- Misspelling as 'convixity' or 'convextiy'.
- Confusing with 'concavity' (opposite meaning).
- Using in non-technical contexts where 'curve' or 'bulge' would be more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. 'Curvature' is a more general term for how much a curve deviates from being straight. 'Convexity' specifically refers to outward curvature.
Yes, in finance, 'negative convexity' describes a specific scenario where the price-yield relationship of a bond is curved unfavourably for the investor. In geometry, a shape is either convex or concave (the opposite).
There isn't a truly common everyday use. It's most frequently encountered in technical, scientific, or financial contexts.
Compare it to its antonym 'concavity'. A convex shape bulges out (like a hill), while a concave shape caves in (like a bowl).
The quality or state of having a surface or shape that curves outward like the exterior of a sphere or circle.
Conˈvexity is usually technical / formal / academic in register.
Conˈvexity: in British English it is pronounced /kɒnˈvɛk.sɪ.ti/, and in American English it is pronounced /kɑːnˈvɛk.sə.t̬i/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this specific noun]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CONVEX lens that bulges OUT (vexingly outward!). CONVEXity is the state of being convex.
Conceptual Metaphor
BULGING IS CONVEXITY (e.g., 'the convexity of the hill'), STABILITY/PROTECTION IS CONVEXITY (as in a shield's shape).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is 'convexity' a specific technical measure of price sensitivity?