sharp
Terminating in a point or edge, especially one that can cut or pierce easily; not dull, obtuse, or rounded.
Word facts
Definition of Sharp
Raised by one semitone (denoted by the symbol ♯ after the name of the note).
Example sentences
The pitch pipe sounded out a perfect F♯ (F sharp).
The piece was difficult to read after it had been transposed, since in the new key many notes were sharps.
Using Sharp well
A closer look at how sharp is used — meaning in plain English, how close synonyms differ, and examples at different levels.
Having a fine edge or point that cuts, or (of the mind, senses, or changes) quick, clear, and intense.
Use 'sharp' for cutting edges, quick intelligence, clear focus, sudden changes, or a stylish, well-defined look. It ranges easily from everyday to figurative use.
Common in cooking and tools, descriptions of intelligence, weather and pain, finance (a sharp rise), and fashion.
In music, 'sharp' means a note raised or pitched too high, and 'flat' means too low — the opposite of 'flat' here is not 'dull'.
- keen
- more figurative — a keen mind or keen eyesight; rarely used for a literal blade today
- acute
- formal — used for senses, angles, or intense pain rather than blades
- pointed
- narrower — having a point; figuratively, remarks that are direct and cutting
- abrupt
- for changes — sudden and jarring, without the sense of precision
- crisp
- for images or style — clean and well-defined, but softer than 'sharp'
- dull
- opposite for both blades and minds — not sharp, slow, or blunt
- blunt
- for edges — having no cutting point; figuratively, plain-spoken
- gradual
- opposite for changes — happening slowly rather than suddenly
- Beginner Be careful, the knife is very sharp.
- In writing There was a sharp drop in sales after the price increase.
- Advanced Her questions were sharp without being unkind, cutting straight to the flaw in every argument.
A sharp knife cuts cleanly and a sharp mind thinks cleanly — both get straight to the point.
Related words
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Words that rhyme with Sharp
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What does sharp mean?
Terminating in a point or edge, especially one that can cut or pierce easily; not dull, obtuse, or rounded. It is an adjective.
How many syllables does sharp have?
There is 1 syllable in sharp — it is spoken as one beat: sharp.
What part of speech is sharp?
Sharp works as an adjective. As a verb, it describes an action or state.
What are synonyms for sharp?
You can often swap sharp for shrewd, keen, acerbic, astute, though each carries a slightly different shade of meaning.
How do you use sharp in a sentence?
Example: "The pitch pipe sounded out a perfect F♯ (F sharp)."