1
as in sensitive
able to sense slight impressions or differences
dogs, with their acute sense of smell, are used for finding toxic substances undetectable by humans
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in urgent
needing immediate attention
famine caused by an acute shortage of grain
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in intense
extreme in degree, power, or effect
experiencing acute distress over the misunderstanding with her best friend
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of acute
The acute phase is the most noticeable, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
—
Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Sep. 2025
But in some markets, especially in popular cities where the housing shortage remains acute, this phenomenon has not taken place.
—Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025
That has meant companies have less pricing power, so the tariff impact has been less acute.
—Jeff Cox, CNBC, 11 Sep. 2025
Hulk, whose real name was Terrence Gene Bollea, died of acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, on July 24.
—Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 10 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for acute
Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Sep. 2025
But in some markets, especially in popular cities where the housing shortage remains acute, this phenomenon has not taken place.
—Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025
That has meant companies have less pricing power, so the tariff impact has been less acute.
—Jeff Cox, CNBC, 11 Sep. 2025
Hulk, whose real name was Terrence Gene Bollea, died of acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, on July 24.
—Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 10 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for acute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for acute
Adjective
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Formulated without alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, the TheraBreath Whitening Fresh Breath Oral Rinse uses glucose oxidase and enzymes called papain to help break up stains and kill bad-breath-causing bacteria—all without aggravating sensitive teeth and gums.—
Sophia Panych,
Allure,
16 Sep. 2025
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Organizations are increasingly relying on AI to handle the initial assessment load, especially in high-volume or compliance-sensitive hiring scenarios.—
Aaron Dhaliwal,
Forbes.com,
16 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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TeamSmile also launched a new pilot program to deliver essential dental care for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), highlighting the urgent need for accessible treatment for these kids.—
Tammy Ljungblad,
Kansas City Star,
10 Sep. 2025
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This means distinguishing between urgent and important tasks, eliminating unnecessary metrics and communications, clarifying policies, and setting clear expectations.—
Kotter,
Forbes.com,
10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Pyongyang has continued to exercise significant control over the population and severely restrict the rights and freedoms of its population, and that has only gotten more intense over the last decade.—
Mike Brest,
The Washington Examiner,
12 Sep. 2025
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This question — which strikes at the heart of a perennial issue in American politics, frequently reignited by recurring mass shootings — sparked an intense partisan divide.—
Brendan Rascius,
Miami Herald,
12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Many of the night’s attendees also were keen to meet Dolores Huerta, the 95-year-old icon who is known for her work in both the labor and feminist movements.—
Laurie Brookins,
HollywoodReporter,
12 Sep. 2025
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Plenty of Republican senators, including Marsha Blackburn and Josh Hawley, are keen to pass regulation that mitigates AI harms.—
Andrew R. Chow,
Time,
12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Advertisement The flurry of updates came three days after Robinson was arrested following an intensive hunt for Kirk's killer.—
Richard Hall,
Time,
14 Sep. 2025
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Doing this requires massive system level integration and is resource intensive.—
Thomas Coughlin,
Forbes.com,
12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Additionally, the company stands out by prioritizing culture and vision over quick commissions.—
William Jones,
USA Today,
11 Sep. 2025
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Roberson, leader of the church since 2023, has also opened the doors of the Cathedral from Monday-Saturday for tours, prayers or anyone walking by who needs a quick respite from the Miami heat.—
Lauren Costantino,
Miami Herald,
10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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In the face of fierce opposition, Lyles supported bringing the Republican National Convention to Charlotte in 2020 — standing on her commitment to represent the entire city as mayor.—
Briah Lumpkins,
Charlotte Observer,
15 Sep. 2025
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In Paradise Bay, competition is fierce to attract high-end clientele and the standout offering at Maxx Royal is its two-story, 5,750-square-meter spa.—
Maureen O'Hare,
CNN Money,
15 Sep. 2025
Adjective
-
Iniki is the Hawaiian word for sharp and piercing wind.—
Dinah Voyles Pulver,
USA Today,
11 Sep. 2025
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Known for his bold use of color, playful bows, and signature heart motifs, Kelly’s work mixed joy and wit with sharp social commentary.—
Karissa Mitchell,
Essence,
10 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Acute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/acute. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.
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