sharp-cut

A tailor makes a sharp-cut suit for a client.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having a clearly defined, distinct edge or outline: "sharp-cut" describes something that appears as if it has been cut sharply, resulting in a clear, precise, and unambiguous boundary or form.
   • Clearly defined or distinct in character: It can also refer to ideas, distinctions, or features that are very clear, precise, and not vague or blurred.

Usage Examples

• (The outline of the mountains was very clear and distinct against the sky.)
• (The difference he described was very precise and unambiguous.)
• (The photo had very clear, well-defined edges.)

Advanced Usage

• "sharp-cut features": Referring to facial features that are very defined, such as a strong jawline or prominent cheekbones.

  • The actor’s sharp-cut features made him ideal for period dramas. (His facial structure was very distinct and angular.)

• "sharp-cut division": A separation that is very clear and without any overlap or ambiguity.

  • There was a sharp-cut division between the two political parties on this issue. (The opinions were completely opposed with no middle ground.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sharp-cutness (n): the quality of being sharp-cut.

  • The sharp-cutness of the cliffs was breathtaking. (The clarity and distinctness of the cliffs' edges was impressive.)

• Sharp (adj): having a thin, fine edge or point; also, clear and distinct in outline.

  • The knife is sharp. (It can cut easily.)
  • The photo is sharp. (The image is clear.)

• Cut (v): to make an opening or incision with a sharp tool.

  • She cut the paper with scissors. (She divided the paper using a cutting tool.)

Synonyms

• Clear-cut: very clear and definite; not ambiguous.
• Well-defined: having a clear and precise outline or boundary.
• Distinct: recognizably different; clear and unmistakable.
• Sharp-edged: having a sharp edge; also, very clear and distinct.

Related Idioms

• Cut and dried: something already decided or settled in a clear, fixed way.
  • The plan is cut and dried; there is no room for changes. (The plan is fixed and clear.)
  • Note: While "cut and dried" shares the idea of clearness, it is a fixed phrase and not directly related to "sharp-cut" in form.

Phrasal Verbs

• None directly associated with "sharp-cut" as it is an adjective, not a verb. However, the verb "cut" can be used in phrasal verbs:
  • Cut out: to remove or eliminate.

    • He cut out the unnecessary details from the report. (He removed them.)
  • Cut off: to separate or stop.

    • The flood cut off the town from the main road. (The town was isolated.)