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
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 clear-cut
The question of its constitutionality is not clear-cut.
—
Arkansas Online, 20 Mar. 2026
But the case might not be all that clear-cut.
—Clio Chang, Curbed, 11 Mar. 2026
The line between the frontlines and the homefront in terms of injuries is no longer clear-cut.
—Amelie Botbol, FOXNews.com, 2 Mar. 2026
The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a more clear-cut diplomatic win for the president.
—Abc News, ABC News, 25 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for clear-cut
Arkansas Online, 20 Mar. 2026
But the case might not be all that clear-cut.
—Clio Chang, Curbed, 11 Mar. 2026
The line between the frontlines and the homefront in terms of injuries is no longer clear-cut.
—Amelie Botbol, FOXNews.com, 2 Mar. 2026
The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a more clear-cut diplomatic win for the president.
—Abc News, ABC News, 25 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for clear-cut
Recent Examples of Synonyms for clear-cut
Adjective
-
To further prevent obvious staining, choose darker flooring that won't show mud and dirt as easily.—
Claire Hoppe Norgaard,
Better Homes & Gardens,
6 June 2026
-
Black is an obvious choice, but purple, red, pink, navy, or even bolder choices like butter yellow, or orange can also work.—
Lauren Jones,
The Spruce,
6 June 2026
Adjective
-
Or, at least, the non-explicit words in Bodak Yellow.—
Kyle Feldscher,
CNN Money,
8 June 2026
-
The expansion was explicit about its intentions.—
Hannah Abraham,
Forbes.com,
6 June 2026
Adjective
-
The humor resulting from the combination of apparent authenticity, slick social media editing and a compelling mission has prompted speculation among onlookers about the band's true origin.—
Max Bacall , Tessa Hoyos , Nikos DeGruccio,
FOXNews.com,
6 June 2026
-
The apparent unit of output—a token—is not a stable unit of economic value.—
James Broughel,
Forbes.com,
6 June 2026
Adjective
-
The album has a definite release date, while when the film will come out beyond the festival circuit is still up in the air.—
Chris Willman,
Variety,
4 June 2026
-
Among the appetizers, wings are a definite crowd favorite.—
Regina Elling,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
3 June 2026
Adjective
-
And Monroe's blonde legacy is so unmistakable that Lady Gaga's platinum pose recalls Monroe because of its evocation of Madonna.—
Rebecca Mead,
Allure,
29 May 2026
-
Listing agent Tiegen Boberg of Coldwell Banker Realty said the home’s appeal was unmistakable but specific, the kind of property that doesn’t fit neatly into a typical buyer checklist.—
David Caraccio,
Sacbee.com,
29 May 2026
Adjective
-
But getting in the lake's often-frigid waters is the definitive Tahoe experience.—
Alia Beard Rau,
USA Today,
10 June 2026
-
Newport, Rhode Island On this breath-taking peninsula overlooking Narragansett Bay, Castle Hill Inn is a definitive choice for solace, if for no other reason that waking up to the dramatic view each morning.—
Judith Garrison,
AJC.com,
9 June 2026
Adjective
-
With a new wave of extraordinary properties, transformative experiences, and a clear vision rooted in sustainability and authenticity, the country is emerging as one of the Caribbean’s most compelling destinations for the discerning traveler.—
Condé Nast Traveler,
Condé Nast Traveler,
11 June 2026
-
The insect can be identified by its flat triangular head, large eyes and clear wings.—
Seamus Bozeman
Follow,
Los Angeles Times,
11 June 2026
Adjective
-
Disability parking permits are assigned to a person, not a specific car.—
Michelle Marchante,
Miami Herald,
8 June 2026
-
Sierra did not in her letter address specific concerns raised by Wooden or Gottfried.—
Helen I. Bennett,
Hartford Courant,
8 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Clear-cut.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clear-cut. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
