CLEAR-CUT Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

clear-cut

adjective

ˈklir-ˈkət

Definition of clear-cut

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

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 For the advertisers, however, the strategy appears less clear-cut. — Shann Biglione, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 In a few short decades every forest in Pennsylvania—and nearly the entirety of eastern North America—would be clear-cut and transformed into a wasteland of stumps. — Literary Hub, 10 June 2026 Welcome to the postelection vote-count slog in California, where tight races are often impossible to call even when the initial results seem clear-cut. — Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2026 The debate over exterior lighting is not clear-cut; factors such as energy use, security concerns, placement, and even local wildlife come into play. — Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for clear-cut

Recent Examples of Synonyms for clear-cut

Adjective

Areas where forecasts consistently predict clear skies — or persistent cloud — will become increasingly obvious as eclipse day approaches.

— Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
The choice of Bailey as the newest Giorgio Armani global fragrance ambassador was obvious.

— Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of obvious

Adjective

In reality, execution is built on clear ownership, protected time for focused work and explicit permission to disconnect.

— Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
While his exhortation left off Brady’s signature profane intensifier, the motivational gambit remained explicit even in the absence of the familiar F-bomb.

— Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 31 July 2026

Definition of explicit

Adjective

Never has that been more apparent than on petal, the star’s eighth studio album and her first to release via her own imprint, BabyDoll Music, as a subsidiary of Republic.

— Aimee Cliff, Pitchfork, 31 July 2026
Initially, authorities said there were no apparent indications of foul play and that Wells could have drowned, noting the area is known for its dangerous rip currents.

— Adam England, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026

Definition of apparent

Adjective

Dunphy said a definite ask by the city will be an insistence on a labor-harmony agreement that ensures union jobs.

— Jason Quick, New York Times, 31 July 2026
Music, Fashion, Film is a definite left-turn from the pop provocateur’s recent work, but its earnest blend of cheek and vulnerability is Charli through and through.

— Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 24 July 2026

Definition of definite

Adjective

That interplay of warmth, spice, and richer notes is what gives fall fragrances their unmistakable character, setting them apart from the lighter, brighter scents of spring and summer.

— Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2026
Few heads turn despite her tall, unmistakable frame shuffling across the floor.

— Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of unmistakable

Adjective

Several players declined to comment on the session, but some, including Richard Bland, pointed to DeChambeau’s role in the meeting and cited a lack of definitive updates.

— Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
With so much uncertainty still surrounding the ruling, Danielson wouldn’t commit to a timeline or even provide a definitive answer as to whether either player would be allowed to return.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of definitive

Adjective

Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns are closer to the end of their careers than the beginning, and this was made very clear throughout their promos on Raw.

— Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026
Golden State’s new floor is bright blue – decidedly not a Valkyries team color – and features clear Chase Bank branding throughout.

— Christian Babcock, Mercury News, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of clear

Adjective

Which is not entirely unreasonable given this very specific set of circumstances.

— Brian Grubb, Vulture, 3 Aug. 2026
The Kansas City-area college also offers an AI certificate and is making plans to tailor AI classes to specific occupations, such as human resources and medical careers.

— ABC News, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of specific

Browse Nearby Words

clearances

clear-cut

cleared

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Style

“Clear-cut.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clear-cut. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of clear-cut

adjective

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