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
But other experts say the apparent discovery may not be so clear-cut.
—
Joseph Howlett,
Scientific American,
13 May 2026
Ordinarily, the advice would be to rip up your team to triple-up on the clubs with two fixtures, but this time around, things maybe aren’t as clear-cut.
—
Holly Shand,
New York Times,
8 May 2026
However, that distinction isn’t so clear-cut.
—
A.j. Russo,
Baltimore Sun,
13 Apr. 2026
Here, there is only one certainty — the evil of the Empire — but beyond that, things aren’t as clear-cut.
—
Rafael Motamayor,
IndieWire,
6 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for clear-cut
Joseph Howlett,
Scientific American,
13 May 2026
Ordinarily, the advice would be to rip up your team to triple-up on the clubs with two fixtures, but this time around, things maybe aren’t as clear-cut.
—
Holly Shand,
New York Times,
8 May 2026
However, that distinction isn’t so clear-cut.
—
A.j. Russo,
Baltimore Sun,
13 Apr. 2026
Here, there is only one certainty — the evil of the Empire — but beyond that, things aren’t as clear-cut.
—
Rafael Motamayor,
IndieWire,
6 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for clear-cut
Recent Examples of Synonyms for clear-cut
Adjective
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The teenage phenom is able to complement his obvious technical skills with a flair and maturity in high-pressure situations that is well beyond his years.
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This was most obvious during Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour, when brands capitalized on all things Taylor — friendship bracelets, themed drinks and even concert outfits.
Adjective
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There is no more explicit example of the vulnerability of American democracy, and of the magnitude of the task of repairing it once it is breached.
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The real toxicity concern, per The New Republic‘s review of contractor materials, confirming previous reporting from Meidas News, lies in the epoxy resin used for the pool’s new lining, which carries explicit long-term aquatic toxicity warnings.
Adjective
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This comes after dozens of leading Mexican sports outlets reported the time change — after apparent briefing — as did the BBC, which has rights to the game in the UK.
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Anybody who is anybody is making their way to New York’s Madison Square Garden dressed to the nines in an apparent march to get to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding.
Adjective
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Overall definite recommend on Screen Engine and Rentrak’s Postmark audience exits was 52%, versus Superman at 74%.
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Elements like paint, lighting, furniture, and decor are definite opportunities to have a little more fun with trends without worrying about longer-term ramifications.
Adjective
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This band may have created millions of fans, but its influence on the 80s rock music is unmistakable.
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The warning delivered by this year’s primaries is unmistakable.
Adjective
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There are no definitive statistics about how many students are affected by state bans.
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In 1868, at the age of 29, John Muir arrived in San Francisco via steamship with definitive plans to wander and revel in the natural wonders of California—he’d heard of the Golden State’s geographic riches and wanted to see them for himself.
Adjective
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McLeese said each guest in the restricted area is allowed only one clear bag no larger than a gallon, or a small clutch purse.
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There appears to be no clear association between these two lists, although the contaminant list is supposed to inform the monitoring list.
Adjective
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Even though the film had no specific political focus.
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The specific programs targeted by the EPA regulate emissions from vehicles, lawn and garden equipment, and generators.
Cite this Entry
“Clear-cut.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clear-cut. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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