1
as in obvious
not subject to misinterpretation or more than one interpretation
a clear-cut case of plagiarism that resulted in her immediate dismissal
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in explicit
so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning
clear-cut instructions that even an idiot should be able to follow
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of clear-cut
Unlike screening mammography of women over 50 — which clearly reduces their risk of dying from breast cancer — and studies that demonstrate the benefits of screening for colon, cervical and lung cancer in specific populations, the value of prostate cancer screening is less clear-cut.
—
Arthur L. Kellermann, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
Yes, homeownership often represents much more stable living expenses than renting – but in an age of rising insurance costs and property taxes, that tradeoff isn’t so clear-cut any more.
—Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 18 May 2025
Originally, the timeline for how this massive diversification of life occurred was fairly clear-cut.
—Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 14 May 2025
The team is now showing resolve against the West’s clear-cut No. 1, limiting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander down the stretch and winning the clutch minutes with unshakable cool (Russell Westbrook is a celebratory yeller, fine, but these guys are a chill bunch overall).
—Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for clear-cut
Arthur L. Kellermann, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
Yes, homeownership often represents much more stable living expenses than renting – but in an age of rising insurance costs and property taxes, that tradeoff isn’t so clear-cut any more.
—Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 18 May 2025
Originally, the timeline for how this massive diversification of life occurred was fairly clear-cut.
—Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 14 May 2025
The team is now showing resolve against the West’s clear-cut No. 1, limiting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander down the stretch and winning the clutch minutes with unshakable cool (Russell Westbrook is a celebratory yeller, fine, but these guys are a chill bunch overall).
—Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for clear-cut
Recent Examples of Synonyms for clear-cut
Adjective
-
Lionsgate post-Starz spin-off would be the most obvious choice, without the weight of cable networks on both sides and with a host of still-viable Lionsgate franchises including John Wick, The Hunger Games and Saw.—
Howard Homonoff,
Forbes.com,
10 June 2025
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Sending in the National Guard was an obvious military flex, designed to to bait Angelenos while perhaps distracting Americans from Trump’s far greater troubles.—
Mary McNamara,
Los Angeles Times,
9 June 2025
Adjective
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The study exposed fundamental limitations in exact computation, revealing that these systems fail to use explicit algorithms and reason inconsistently across similar puzzles.—
Cornelia C. Walther,
Forbes.com,
10 June 2025
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For instance, in Washington and Oregon, similar rules apply, while some states restrict this maneuver more heavily or require explicit signage allowing it.—
Shaun Goodwin,
Idaho Statesman,
7 June 2025
Adjective
-
The man dropped to the ground and was arrested without any apparent resistance in the video that Osante filmed.—
Colleen Slevin,
Los Angeles Times,
2 June 2025
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Wolff did admit that seeing the positives were difficult, aside from the apparent step in tire management.—
Madeline Coleman,
New York Times,
2 June 2025
Adjective
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The Fillers have gone before town officials this past spring to present a concept plan to the Cedar Lake Planning Commission, which included restoring the chapel to be in use, but no definite decisions have been made.—
Anna Ortiz,
Chicago Tribune,
31 May 2025
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More Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images While there are definite reasons for Indiana fans to be nervous, Haliburton is motivated to make sure the Pacers do not drop Game 6 at home.—
Evan Massey,
MSNBC Newsweek,
30 May 2025
Adjective
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The gravity of the moment was unmistakable — the consequences of a loss, and the eventual magnitude of a win.—
Anthony De Leon,
Los Angeles Times,
1 June 2025
-
In a market defined by uncertainty, the bond market’s message is unmistakable: brace for impact.—
Dan Irvine,
Forbes.com,
31 May 2025
Adjective
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Crypto Confidential: Forbes' definitive guide to crypto and blockchain, delivered to your inbox every Saturday.—
Becca Bratcher,
Forbes.com,
10 June 2025
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Often hailed as the definitive screen version, this series perfectly captured the turning point in Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s romance and brought to life the very estate many imagined from the novel’s descriptions.—
Abby Montanez,
Robb Report,
10 June 2025
Adjective
-
Then three, and still there was no clear timeline for Zimmer’s departure.—
Peter Kiefer,
HollywoodReporter,
4 June 2025
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But while the flood of content grows, one clear trend emerges: People trust people more than faceless organizations.—
Luca Brinkhues,
Forbes.com,
4 June 2025
Adjective
-
For each position, highlight specific wins and impact.—
Jodie Cook,
Forbes.com,
2 June 2025
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For celebrities this week, the latest in hair, makeup, and nails were exalted through specific colors, styles, and of course, the agreement on what’s in this season.—
India Espy-Jones,
Essence,
2 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Clear-cut.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clear-cut. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.
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