a pointed top

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pointed top" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an object or structure that has a sharp or tapered upper end, such as a roof, hat, or mountain peak. Example: "The pyramid is known for its distinctive shape, featuring a pointed top that reaches towards the sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Thanks to basic geometry, the shadow shows a pointed top, no matter the shape of the mountain's summit.

Huffington Post

This works best if your calculator's "4" has an open top, rather than a pointed top.

WikiHow

You could also think of this as an oval with a pointed top.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Zahara appears to be a White Town clinging to the upward thrust of an enormous gray rock conical rising from the plain to a pointed summit topped with an Arabic tower.

The New York Times - Travel

Known as the Girls of Enghelab Street, 29 more were arrested before Tehran's city council erected a pointed cover on top of the electricity box to stop them climbing on it.

The Times

Her voice seemed divided in two: a slender, pointed top and a big, rather artificial low that, when invoked, seemed to overwhelm everything above it.

The New York Times - Arts

Then, be sure to replace it with a more pointed top.

WikiHow

A broad-based pyramid indicates that people in the younger age categories make up a relatively large proportion of the population, and a narrow or pointed top indicates that older people make up a relatively small proportion of the population.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Why would you want to be the first one there if you have to serve everyone else? You're sneaking a peek at someone with your eyes, not sneaking up the pointed top of a mountain.

Huffington Post

Hold the artichoke on its side with one hand and use your other hand to cut off 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the pointed top with a sharp knife.

WikiHow

Made by Italora SpA-Milano in Italy, the 60-minute timer operates with an easy twist of the pointed top half to the time required.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing shapes, use "a pointed top" to clearly indicate a sharp or tapered upper part. Be mindful of the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended form. For abstract concepts, consider alternatives like "a sharp focus".

Common error

Avoid using "a pointed top" in abstract contexts where it doesn't make sense. For example, instead of saying 'The argument had a pointed top', opt for 'The argument had a sharp focus' or 'The argument was incisive'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pointed top" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a descriptor for a physical object or structure. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, as seen in examples describing mountains, hats and pyramids.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pointed top" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase to describe objects with sharp or tapered upper ends. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, finding examples across various domains like describing mountains, pyramids, and hats. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, its primary function is descriptive, conveying visual details. As Ludwig's analysis shows, consider alternative phrases like "a sharp peak" or "a tapered summit" based on context and desired emphasis, and avoid using it in abstract contexts where a more specific descriptor is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pointed apex

Synonymous but emphasizes the apex, the highest point of something.

a sharp peak

Focuses on the sharpness of the top, rather than just its pointed nature.

a tapered summit

Emphasizes the gradual narrowing towards the top, suitable for mountains or conical shapes.

a conical apex

More formal, highlighting the cone-like shape and its highest point.

an acute summit

Similar to 'sharp peak' but uses 'acute' to describe the angle.

a peaked crown

Suggests a top that resembles a crown with a peak, often used for hats or roofs.

a sharpened tip

Implies that the top has been intentionally sharpened.

a spiked summit

Suggests a top that is sharp and spike-like.

a tapering end

Focuses on the process of narrowing towards the end.

a gabled roof

Refers specifically to a roof with a pointed top formed by two slopes.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pointed top" to describe objects with a sharp or tapered upper end. For example, "The mountain had a pointed top that was covered in snow" or "The witch's hat featured a pointed top".

What can I say instead of "a pointed top"?

You can use alternatives like "a sharp peak", "a tapered summit", or "a conical apex" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a pointed top" or should I use another phrase?

"A pointed top" is grammatically correct and widely used. However, the best choice depends on the specific context. Alternatives might include "a sharp peak" if emphasizing sharpness, or "a tapered summit" for a gradual narrowing.

What does "a pointed top" typically describe?

"A pointed top" usually describes physical objects or structures that have a sharp or tapered upper end. This can include things like mountains, hats, roofs, or other conical shapes. The phrase emphasizes the shape of the object's summit.