How does the adjective sharp contrast with its synonyms?
The words acute and keen are common synonyms of sharp. While all three words mean "having or showing alert competence and clear understanding," sharp implies quick perception, clever resourcefulness, or sometimes questionable trickiness.
sharp enough to spot a confidence game
Where would acute be a reasonable alternative to sharp?
The synonyms acute and sharp are sometimes interchangeable, but acute implies a power to penetrate and may suggest subtlety and sharpness of discrimination.
an acute sense of style
When is it sensible to use keen instead of sharp?
The words keen and sharp are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, keen suggests quickness, enthusiasm, and a penetrating mind.
a keen observer of the political scene
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of sharp
Adjective
However, after the provision ended, there was a sharp reduction in the number of people enrolled, which KFF argued was partly because some people did not understand the unwinding process.—David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 Apr. 2025 Her new found edge is attributed to the sharp rise in the number of homicides in the country — more than 700 in both January and February this year, according to the Interior Ministry.—Carrie Kahn, NPR, 12 Apr. 2025
Adverb
In 2021, prior to BTS temporarily splitting off into individual sectors while some members pursue solo projects and others complete their mandatory military service, Jung Kook spoke to Rolling Stone about keeping his skillset sharp across the board.—Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 3 July 2023 The 27-year-old didn’t come out sharp, allowing three hits, including an RBI single to Royce Lewis, in a 27-pitch first inning.—Jacob Calvin Meyer, Baltimore Sun, 1 July 2023
Noun
Liquids, needles or sharps cannot be accepted — only pills or patches.—Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Apr. 2024 But a reminder — the sharps were on the Eagles last year.—Jason Abbruzzese, NBC News, 12 Feb. 2024
Verb
That could require Republicans to identify even steeper reductions, perhaps totaling $16 trillion, in a move that could expose the party to sharp political attacks.—Tony Romm, Jeff Stein and Marianna Sotomayor, Anchorage Daily News, 10 Mar. 2023 Investors are reassessing their outlook for economic growth amid these massive policy risks, leading to sharp down and up movements in stock markets.—Christian Weller, Forbes, 25 Jan. 2023 See All Example Sentences for sharp
The admirable Kentucky Freedom Run Farm provides the fine, flavorful lamb for a slow braising and sided with a spicy tomato jam risotto, coriander, mint-and-pistachio gremolata and the reduction of the meat’s juices.
—
John Mariani,
Forbes.com,
22 Apr. 2025
His agenda for a perfect day in L.A. includes a boat party, an ice bath and the most glorious spicy shrimp in town.
This hat offers a throwback ‘90s look while keeping you stylish and protected.
—
Alesandra Dubin,
Travel + Leisure,
12 Apr. 2025
By Emma Specter Wellness 5 Daily Activities That Lower Cortisol, No Meditation Required
By Ana Morales
Opinion
The 24 Best Feel-Good Movies to Rewatch Now
By Emma Specter
Another main focus for the stylish series?
Hot Potato Salad Recipe: Shaved Vegetable Salad Recipe: Easy Bunny Cake
This easy and elegant menu keeps things classic, but with an extra helping of flavor and color.
—
Alana Al-Hatlani,
Southern Living,
19 Apr. 2025
Puff sleeves are always elegant, helping to dress up any outfit no matter what it’s paired with.
Yamaha started with their largest offshore outboard, the XTO 450, and made some smart changes to handle hydrogen.
—
Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report,
FOXNews.com,
22 Apr. 2025
An increasing number of smart, eco-conscious entrepreneurs are putting Earth first by utilizing unwanted materials that would otherwise end up as trash.
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