Confusing Words: Concave (adjective) and Convex (adjective)
Meaning:
Concave (having an outline or surface that curves inwards like the interior of a circle or sphere.)
Convex (having an outline or surface curved like the exterior of a circle or sphere.)
Concave vs Convex Clarification: Concave and convex are used to describe two different surfaces.
Concave vs Convex – What is the Difference, Definition & Meaning?
Concave and convex are a few letters apart. Most importantly, both of these words are used to refer lenses. This is the reason for the confusion between them. I, also, get confused sometimes, whether to choose concave or convex.
These words are used for the two different types of lenses that have different or, good to say, opposite functions from each other. Let us define them one by one.
Concave
Concave is used as an adjective within a sentence. It is used to describe a lens that rounds or curves inward like the inside of a ball.
1. The teacher said, “Can you see the inside surface of the glass? It is concave.”
2. The CV1 is a bold made-to-order street performance wheel that is notable for its muscular concave seven-spoke design and strong chamfered machining details around the spokes. (Tires & Parts News)
Convex
Like concave, convex is also used as an adjective within a sentence. But, unlike concave, convex is used to describe a lens that rounds or curves outward like the outside of any round object or a ball.
1. You can see that the lens is convex from the other side.
2. Last year, in fact, there were reports saying that the iPhone 7 will be accompanied by a convex screen. (Weekly Observer)
Some Examples of Concave and Convex Surfaces
Concave: cosmetic mirrors, telescopes, headlights, spotlights, etc.
Convex: Spoons, side mirrors of cars, sunglasses, etc.
Other Meanings
Both Concave and convex have one more function. These words are also used in the world of mathematics. Both are polygons in which concave has an internal angle greater than 180°. Convex, on the other hand, has angles that are less than or equal to 180°.
What Did You Learn?
Concave and convex are used to describe two different surfaces.
Concave rounds or curves inward.
Convex, on the other hand, rounds or curves outward. Both of these words are used as adjectives within a sentence.