Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having a sharp or tapered end: Describes something that comes to a distinct, often sharp, tip.
   • Direct and obvious in meaning or reference; often unpleasant: Describes a remark, look, or criticism that is clearly directed and often critical or cutting.

Usage and Examples

• Adjective (Physical Shape):

  • The wizard wore a tall, pointed hat.
  • Be careful with the pointed end of the needle.

• Adjective (Manner or Expression):

  • She made a pointed comment about his tardiness.
  • He gave me a pointed look, signaling I should stop talking.

Advanced Usage

• "to make a pointed remark": to say something that is clearly aimed at a particular person or issue, often critically.
  • During the meeting, she made several pointed remarks about the lack of preparation.

Variants and Related Words

• Pointedly (adverb): In a direct and obvious way, often to express criticism or emphasis.
  • He pointedly ignored the question.
• Pointedness (noun): The quality of being pointed, either physically or in meaning.
• Pointer (noun): A thing that points, such as an arrow or a hint.

Synonyms

• Sharp (for physical shape).
• Barbed, Cutting, Incisive, Trenchant (for remarks or criticism).

Antonyms

• Blunt, Rounded (for physical shape).
• Vague, Ambiguous, Indirect (for remarks or meaning).

Related Phrases and Idioms

• A pointed question: A question that is direct and designed to get a specific, often revealing, answer.
  • The journalist asked a pointed question about the company's finances.

Adjective

1. direct and obvious in meaning or reference; often unpleasant
   • a pointed critique
   • a pointed allusion to what was going on
   • another pointed look in their direction
2. having a point