Definition of Sharp
Quick Meaning of Sharp
Having a fine edge or point that can cut or hurt; not dull or smooth.
Detailed Definition of Sharp
Having a thin, keen edge or point; able to cut or pierce easily.
How to Pronounce Sharp
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with 'ar' vowel sound like in 'car', 'far', and 'start'. Ends with 'p' sound. Stress: SHARP.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced /ʃæp/ with short 'a'; correct is /ʃɑːrp/ with longer 'ar' sound.
Origin and Etymology of Sharp
From Old English 'scearp'; related to scraping and cutting. Germanic roots meaning keen or pointed.
How to Use Sharp in a Sentence
Each example shows “sharp” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The knife blade is very sharp and can cut through meat easily.”
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“Be careful with that sharp corner; you might hurt yourself.”
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“The CEO made a sharp decision to cut inefficient departments.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Sharp
Common Synonyms for Sharp
Smart Synonyms for Sharp — When to Use Each
- pointed
- for having a distinct tapering tip
- keen
- for edges or minds that are highly cutting-effective
- acute
- for angles or feelings that are extremely severe
Antonyms of Sharp
Common Collocations with Sharp
These phrases pair with “sharp” in everyday English:
- sharp knife
- sharp pain
- sharp turn
- sharp increase
- sharp eyes
Common Mistakes When Using Sharp
Even fluent speakers slip up with “sharp”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The knife become very sharp after I sharpened it.
- ✓ Correct: The knife became very sharp after I sharpened it.
- Why: Past tense of 'become' is 'became', not 'become'. Use correct irregular verb form.
- ✗ Wrong: Her response was so sharp that made everyone uncomfortable.
- ✓ Correct: Her response was so sharp that it made everyone uncomfortable.
- Why: Add 'it' to complete the dependent clause. The clause needs a subject pronoun.
Other Forms of Sharp
Frequently Asked Questions About Sharp
What is the meaning of "Sharp"?
Having a fine edge or point that can cut or hurt; not dull or smooth.
How do you pronounce "Sharp"?
The IPA is /ʃɑːrp/. One syllable with 'ar' vowel sound like in 'car', 'far', and 'start'. Ends with 'p' sound. Stress: SHARP.
What part of speech is "Sharp"?
"Sharp" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Sharp"?
Common synonyms include pointed, keen, acute.
How do you use "Sharp" in a sentence?
For example: "The knife blade is very sharp and can cut through meat easily."