a pointed remark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pointed remark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a comment that is sharp, direct, or intended to criticize or highlight a particular issue. Example: "During the meeting, she made a pointed remark about the lack of communication within the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

And Beauvoir could flit between high-minded philosophy and a pointed remark without any trouble at all.

Independent

In a pointed remark to Trump when he called to console her and offer assistance, she asked only for "sympathy and love for all Muslim communities".

The Guardian

The prime minister suggested there is now a path from special adviser to "career psychopath" in what was interpreted as a pointed remark about Gove's former right-hand man.

The Guardian

She warned Home Office ministers and officials of the consequences of an invasion but, in a pointed remark, suggested she rarely saw Tony Blair in one-to-one meetings.

The Guardian

Mr. Obama himself waded into the issue on Thursday when he made a pointed remark about Prime Minister Vladimir V. Putin, who is Mr. Medvedev's mentor and is widely assumed to be Russia's real ruler.

The New York Times

It was a pointed remark following several reports, including in La Stampa, Buzzfeed and the New York Times, that alleged the Five Star Movement was behind an intense disinformation campaign and that officials in the Renzi government had raised concerns about possible Russian influence in Italian politics.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

EXTRA POINTS Coach AL GROH had a rather pointed remark when asked about the firing of Redskins Coach NORV TURNER today by DANIEL SNYDER, the team's owner.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Buffett, in a remarkably blunt and pointed remark, implicitly rebuked his fellow chief executives, who have been lobbying the Trump administration and Washington lawmakers to lower corporate taxes.

The New York Times

He makes a few pointed remarks about pigs (porkers not us) with a distressed look on his face.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr. Patten has made a few pointed remarks of his own, saying that Britain is leaving Hong Kong with cash reserves amounting to the "greatest dowry since Cleopatra". His three-day visit is not expected to produce major breakthroughs on issues snagging ties between Britain and China, but it will be a test of his ability to negotiate with Beijing and shape the relationship between the two powers.

The New York Times

Clinton appeared on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday and described Albright's comment as a "light-hearted but very pointed remark".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a pointed remark" when you want to emphasize the directness and potential critical nature of a comment. Ensure the context supports the use of a sharp or incisive statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a pointed remark" in contexts that require diplomacy or sensitivity. The phrase can come across as aggressive if not used carefully. Consider the audience and the potential impact of your words.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pointed remark" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It typically refers to a direct, often critical, statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and frequency in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a pointed remark" is a noun phrase used to describe a sharp, direct, and often critical comment. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and appears primarily in News & Media sources. While it can be effective for addressing issues directly, it's important to consider the context and audience to avoid unintended offense. Alternatives such as "a sharp comment" or "a critical observation" may be more suitable in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sharp comment

Replaces "remark" with "comment", emphasizing the directness and potential criticism.

a cutting remark

Substitutes "pointed" with "cutting", highlighting the potentially hurtful nature of the comment.

a critical observation

Uses "observation" instead of "remark", framing it as an analytical assessment.

an incisive comment

Replaces "pointed" with "incisive", stressing the penetrating and clear-thinking quality of the remark.

a trenchant observation

Uses "trenchant" to emphasize the sharp and effective nature of the observation.

a biting comment

Emphasizes the sharpness and potential negativity of the remark through the use of "biting".

a sarcastic comment

Highlights the use of sarcasm in the remark, indicating a possible underlying tone.

a direct criticism

Replaces "remark" with "criticism", focusing on the critical aspect of the statement.

a pertinent comment

Highlights the relevance and importance of the comment being made.

an insightful observation

Shifts the focus to the depth and understanding reflected in the observation.

FAQs

How can I use "a pointed remark" in a sentence?

You can use "a pointed remark" to describe a comment that is direct and often critical. For example: "She made "a pointed remark" about his leadership style during the meeting."

What is a synonym for "a pointed remark"?

Alternatives for "a pointed remark" include "a sharp comment", "a critical observation", or "an incisive comment".

What is the difference between "a pointed remark" and "a sarcastic comment"?

"A pointed remark" is direct and can be critical, while "a sarcastic comment" uses irony or mockery to convey a message. Sarcasm often implies the opposite of what is said, whereas a pointed remark is usually straightforward.

When is it appropriate to use "a pointed remark"?

It's appropriate to use "a pointed remark" when you need to address an issue directly and you are confident that your message will be well-received. Avoid using it in sensitive situations where diplomacy is needed.