Definition

Verb (phrasal verb): - To act quickly or without delay; to hurry. This phrase is an imperative or instruction urging someone to move or proceed with speed and urgency. - To be alert and attentive. In some contexts, it can mean to pay close attention or to be watchful.

Usage

This phrase is primarily used as a direct command or strong suggestion. It is informal and often conveys a sense of urgency or importance.

Examples

• As a command to hurry:
  • "Look sharp! The bus is about to leave."
  • "If we want to get good seats, we'd better look sharp."
• As a command to be alert (less common in modern usage):
  • "Look sharp, everyone. The director is coming."

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used reflexively:
• It is often associated with military or disciplined contexts where promptness and alertness are required.

Variants and Related Words

• Sharpen up (phrasal verb): To improve or become more effective, often quickly.
• Look alive (idiom): A near-synonymous imperative meaning to be alert and active.

Synonyms

• Hurry up: To move or act more quickly.
• Get a move on: An informal phrase meaning to start moving quickly.
• Step on it: A very informal phrase urging someone to hurry, often related to driving.

Related Idioms

• Look lively: Another imperative with a very similar meaning to "look sharp," urging someone to be quick and alert.

Verb

1. act or move at high speed
   • We have to rush!
   • hurry--it's late!