Definition

Adjective 1. Having a strong, pungent, or somewhat bitter flavor: Describes a taste that is intense, often acidic, tart, or unpleasantly bitter, lacking sweetness or mildness.

Usage

The adjective "sharp-tasting" is used to describe food or drink that has a strong, penetrating, and often harsh or bitter flavor profile. It is typically used in a descriptive, and sometimes negative, context.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The cheese had a sharp-tasting rind that contrasted with its creamy center.
  • This variety of apple is known for being crisp and sharp-tasting, not sweet.
  • The sauce was too sharp-tasting for my palate, as I prefer milder flavors.

Advanced Usage

• Descriptive Contrast: Often used to highlight a contrast in flavor within a single food item or between dishes.
  • The sharp-tasting cranberry compote was the perfect counterpoint to the rich, fatty turkey.

Variants and Related Words

• Sharp (adj): Can describe a similar strong, acidic, or pungent taste, often used interchangeably with "sharp-tasting" but can also refer to physical sharpness (e.g., a knife) or mental acuity.
  • A sharp cheddar cheese.
• Sharpness (n): The quality of being sharp-tasting.
  • The sharpness of the vinegar was overwhelming.

Synonyms

• Pungent: Having a sharply strong taste or smell.
• Tangy: Having a sharp, acidic taste, often in a pleasant way.
• Acrid: Unpleasantly bitter or pungent.
• Tart: Sharp or acidic in taste.

Antonyms

• Bland: Lacking strong flavor.
• Mild: Not strong, harsh, or bitter in flavor.
• Sweet: Having the pleasant taste characteristic of sugar.

Adjective

1. somewhat bitter