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as in biting
causing intense discomfort to one's skin I got chapped lips from sailing all day in that sharp wind

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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as in intelligent
having or showing quickness of mind any sharp student would have noticed the error immediately

Synonyms & Similar Words

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sharp

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adverb

as in right
as stated or indicated without the slightest difference be there at four o'clock sharp

Synonyms & Similar Words

sharp

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noun

sharp

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sharp contrast with its synonyms?

The words acute and keen are common synonyms of sharp. While all three words mean "having or showing alert competence and clear understanding," sharp implies quick perception, clever resourcefulness, or sometimes questionable trickiness.

sharp enough to spot a confidence game

Where would acute be a reasonable alternative to sharp?

The synonyms acute and sharp are sometimes interchangeable, but acute implies a power to penetrate and may suggest subtlety and sharpness of discrimination.

an acute sense of style

When is it sensible to use keen instead of sharp?

The words keen and sharp are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, keen suggests quickness, enthusiasm, and a penetrating mind.

a keen observer of the political scene

Examples 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 sharp
Adjective
Hughes’ efforts permitted the Canucks to end the first period level with the Senators at 2-2, a flattering result given Ottawa’s sharp play and Vancouver’s listless form to start the contest. Thomas Drance, The Athletic, 22 Dec. 2024 The bill drew sharp criticism from Democrats on the committee, who argued that parents should have the opportunity to opt their children out of the training, and that the training could be insensitive to students who have had past or familial experiences with gun violence. Vivian Jones, The Tennessean, 20 Dec. 2024
Adverb
In 2021, prior to BTS temporarily splitting off into individual sectors while some members pursue solo projects and others complete their mandatory military service, Jung Kook spoke to Rolling Stone about keeping his skillset sharp across the board. Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 3 July 2023 The 27-year-old didn’t come out sharp, allowing three hits, including an RBI single to Royce Lewis, in a 27-pitch first inning. Jacob Calvin Meyer, Baltimore Sun, 1 July 2023
Noun
Liquids, needles or sharps cannot be accepted — only pills or patches. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Apr. 2024 But a reminder — the sharps were on the Eagles last year. Jason Abbruzzese, NBC News, 12 Feb. 2024
Verb
Investors are reassessing their outlook for economic growth amid these massive policy risks, leading to sharp down and up movements in stock markets. Christian Weller, Forbes, 25 Jan. 2023 The mood of the night was high glam, from flowing gowns to sharp tailoring. Essence Fashion Editors, Essence, 7 Nov. 2022 See all Example Sentences for sharp 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sharp
Adjective
  • In 2018, PepsiCo ran a single ad that touted a new spicy iteration of Doritos and a new lemon-lime variant of Mountain Dew.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 3 Jan. 2025
  • The sweet and spicy fusion of the dark brown glaze.
    Irvin Zhang, Kansas City Star, 2 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The banner included a pointed warning to the Academy, urging it not to consider Emilia Pérez for Best Picture at the Oscars—a possibility that gained traction after its awards sweep.
    Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 6 Jan. 2025
  • The Office alum wore a deep purple gown with black beading from Giorgio Armani, a black purse, and pointed heels for the event.
    Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 6 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • These comfortable, stylish over-ear headphones are lauded for their adjustable EQ and long-lasting battery, ensuring a tailored and uninterrupted listening experience.
    Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 8 Jan. 2025
  • On his day, Stones is probably City’s best central defender, an old-fashioned, stylish libero and perhaps even the best centre-back in the country.
    Sam Lee, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The duo’s delicate scent is a lovely way to start the day, and feels more elegant than a lot of other shampoo and conditioner fragrances.
    Allure Editors, Allure, 1 Jan. 2025
  • Delina has a softness to her that’s alluringly elegant without overpowering the wearer.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 31 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Created by Tony McNamara, who earned Oscar nominations for his writing work on both The Favourite and Poor Things, The Great offers the same combination of lush costumes and scenery mixed with a biting commentary on the world, and a woman’s place in it.
    Jennifer M. Wood, WIRED, 5 Nov. 2024
  • Her awful journey is a raging scream against the patriarchy and a biting critique of how women are viewed, especially by other women.