sharp 1 of 4

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as in biting
causing intense discomfort to one's skin I got chapped lips from sailing all day in that sharp wind

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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as in intelligent
having or showing quickness of mind any sharp student would have noticed the error immediately

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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sharp

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adverb

as in right
as stated or indicated without the slightest difference be there at four o'clock sharp

Synonyms & Similar Words

sharp

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noun

sharp

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verb

Synonym Chooser

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sharp
Adjective
After two years of sharp growth, their first experience of the second tier has brought fierce competition and a steep learning curve, but last Sunday had begun with positivity. George Caulkin, The Athletic, 22 Mar. 2025 Renderings by both Lockheed Martin and Boeing have highlighted a flat, tail-less aircraft with a sharp nose. Tara Copp The Associated Press, arkansasonline.com, 22 Mar. 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sharp
Adjective
  • Their Small Batch Bourbon has received accolades for its smooth yet spicy character.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
  • The handful of flavor choices includes lemon and pistachio, which pair perfectly to cool off the spicy selections in your meal.
    Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 12 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The pointed toes and dual straps (both adjustable, one thinner than the other) offer visual intrigue.
    Nina Derwin, Glamour, 19 Mar. 2025
  • In today’s workplace, people are asking themselves pointed questions: Does this job align with my life’s goals?
    Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Beyond its stylish design and expert craftsmanship, the home is built for comfort.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 21 Mar. 2025
  • The star’s casual looks always find the right balance between stylish and functional.
    Aemilia Madden, Glamour, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Held in the heart of Orlando, this elegant event celebrates resilience and hope, with all proceeds directly supporting vital services for survivors of trauma, violence, and abuse.
    Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Mar. 2025
  • The Montecito Outdoor Pillow Cover, in particular, brings in a jolt of color and texture in one elegant design.
    Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Chad and Darlene confide in each other and bond, a little too closely, over their similar biting humor.
    Denise Petski, Deadline, 12 Mar. 2025
  • The following day, during an episode on his Never Shut Up podcast and YouTube show, Wiley compared Clark’s remarks in reaction to Jackson’s defeat to his more biting words following Allen’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in last year’s NFL Divisional Playoff Round.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 23 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Stricter consumer protection laws worldwide mean businesses face mounting scrutiny and potential legal repercussions for deceptive claims.
    Anjali Chaudhry, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Issues concerning the scheme arise when the business utilizing it sells the data of consumers without proper consent or for deceptive purposes, as this could violate laws, the company said.
    Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Dalman, 26, just reached the end of his rookie contract with the Atlanta Falcons and is heralded as a smart, steady lineman who can be an asset as a run blocker.
    Sean Hammond, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025
  • My vision remains centered on achieving justice for crime victims through effective prosecution, intervention, and the smart use of technology.
    Brenda Looper, arkansasonline.com, 17 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • People have been dreaming about intelligent humanoid robots since the introduction of the beloved family maid Rosey on The Jetsons in the early 1960s.
    Jim McGregor, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Beyond being intelligent, ethical, musically talented, and dedicated; Emily is a true arts-passionate individual.
    Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 16 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sharp.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sharp. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

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