a blunt object

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a blunt object" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an item that is not sharp and is often associated with causing impact or injury. Example: "The detective found a blunt object at the crime scene, which could be the weapon used in the attack."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He describes Kocur's hand as "a blunt object with fingernails".

The New Yorker

A blunt object was used but no other details were given.

The New York Times

Prosecutors said she was bludgeoned by a blunt object, but no murder weapon was ever recovered.

The New York Times

Another 17-year-old was hit on the head with a blunt object, the police said.

The New York Times

The abrasions were caused by a blunt object while Lieutenant Goldwasser was still alive, Dr. Elder re ported.

The New York Times

It is often described by patients as feeling like somebody hit them on the head with a blunt object.

Britannica

Break into small pieces with a blunt object such as a rolling pin and store in an airtight container.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The police said Mr. Gibbs had also been struck with a blunt object on the back of his head.

The New York Times

The men in the car jumped out and beat Mr. Garzon with a blunt object, fracturing his skull.

The New York Times

A blunt object, such as the frying pan you said Neelie Kroes should wield, would only knock down a zombie.

The Economist

"Kill me quickly, I beg you — hit me with a blunt object, anything," were his last, moving words.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a crime scene or accident, using the term "a blunt object" can provide a concise way to indicate the type of weapon or instrument involved without specifying the exact item. This is particularly useful when the specific object is unknown or irrelevant.

Common error

Avoid using "a blunt object" as a generic term in creative writing where more descriptive language could create a stronger image. Instead of saying someone was hit with "a blunt object", consider describing the specific item, such as "a heavy candlestick" or "a cast-iron skillet", to enhance the narrative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a blunt object" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or as a complement within a sentence. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing instruments of injury or force. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

23%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a blunt object" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase used to describe a non-sharp item, often associated with causing impact or injury. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It finds frequent usage across contexts like news, science, and general discussions and, while appropriate for formal writing, it can be overly generic in creative contexts. When writing, consider the specific context and aim for a more descriptive approach to improve the clarity of the narrative. When something more general is appropriate however, do not be afraid to use the phrase, as its pervasiveness in common language makes it easy to understand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a blunt instrument

Synonymous replacement of the word object with "instrument".

a non-sharp item

Directly states the absence of sharpness, a defining characteristic.

a dull instrument

Replaces "object" with a more specific term, implying a tool used for a purpose.

an unsharpened tool

Specifically refers to the absence of a sharpened edge.

a heavy implement

Focuses on the weight of the object, suggesting forcefulness.

a heavy object

Highlights the weight and its capacity of creating damage when is wielded.

a crude tool

Emphasizes the lack of refinement of the tool.

a forceful instrument

Highlights the strength or impact associated with the object.

a bludgeoning weapon

Specifically applies to the context of weapons.

a rounded article

Describes the physical shape, implying lack of precision.

FAQs

How can I use "a blunt object" in a sentence?

You can use "a blunt object" to describe a non-sharp item used to inflict injury, such as: "The victim was struck on the head with "a blunt object"." or to define something that is simple and direct: "He used the new regulations as "a blunt object" against the opponents".

What are some synonyms for "a blunt object"?

Some synonyms for "a blunt object" include "a dull instrument", "a heavy implement", or "a non-sharp item".

Is it appropriate to use "a blunt object" in formal writing?

Yes, "a blunt object" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in contexts such as legal, medical, or scientific reports where precise but non-specific language is required. However, the term may be too generic in creative writing.

What's the difference between "a blunt object" and "a sharp object"?

"A blunt object" refers to an item without a sharp edge or point, often used for impact, while "a sharp object" has a cutting edge or point, used for piercing or slicing.