Definition

1. Noun:
   • The sharp edge of a blade or tool: The part of a knife, sword, or other tool that is sharpened for cutting.
   • The forefront of progress or development: The most advanced or innovative position in a particular field, activity, or technology.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Literal):
  • The cutting edge of the chef's knife was incredibly sharp.
  • Be careful with the saw; its cutting edge is very dangerous.
• Noun (Figurative):
  • This research institute is at the cutting edge of medical science.
  • Their new software is on the cutting edge of artificial intelligence.

Advanced Usage

• "to be at the cutting edge of (something)": to be in the most advanced position within a particular field.
  • The company strives to be at the cutting edge of renewable energy technology.
• "cutting-edge" (as an adjective): extremely modern and advanced. (Note: This is a compound adjective derived from the noun phrase).
  • They are developing cutting-edge solutions for data security.

Variants and Related Words

• Forefront (n): The leading or most important position.
  • She is at the forefront of the environmental movement.
• Vanguard (n): The forefront of an action or movement.
  • The artist was in the vanguard of the modernist style.

Synonyms

• Bleeding edge (even more advanced than "cutting edge," but can imply instability).
• Leading edge.
• Front line.

Related Phrases

• On the cutting edge: Actively involved in the most advanced developments.
  • His work has kept him on the cutting edge of physics for decades.
• Lose its cutting edge: To become less advanced or innovative.
  • The technology has lost its cutting edge since newer models were released.

Noun

1. the sharp cutting side of the blade of a knife
2. the position of greatest importance or advancement; the leading position in any movement or field
   • the Cotswolds were once at the forefront of woollen manufacturing in England
   • the idea of motion was always to the forefront of his mind and central to his philosophy