a sharp comment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp comment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a remark that is pointed, critical, or incisive, often implying a degree of wit or sarcasm. Example: "Her sharp comment about the presentation caught everyone off guard and sparked a lively debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The hyper-masculinity was a sharp comment on machismo.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

If he makes a sharp comment about a colleague, in the very same sentence he will add a softening touch.

The Guardian - Books

Hours before the concert was to begin, Nikolaus Bachler, the general manager of the Bavarian State Opera, whose orchestra performed Saturday, also offered a sharp comment.

The New York Times

Klobuchar drew attention when her questioning of Kavanaugh during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing prompted a sharp comment and then apology from him.

The Washington Post

That drew a sharp comment from Brian Mooney, a reporter who was one of the most vocal opponents of the proposals put before the guild.

The New York Times

As my colleague George Packer noted in a sharp comment this morning, the Obama Administration appears to be intent on making rising inequality a central campaign issue.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Legend has it Gokongwei quickly puts them in their place with a few sharp comments backed up by an uncannily accurate recall of the minute details from their reports.

Forbes

In a few sharp comments, however, passers-by on Kings Highway and on Ocean Parkway, where Rabbi Kassin's Shaare Zion synagogue is located, expressed disdain for Mr. Dwek's reputed role in the investigation.

The New York Times

To anybody out of hibernation this month, though, it seemed a sharp, cruel comment on the fate of Eric Garner, who died after he was choked by a cop, on Staten Island.

The New Yorker

A senior White House official, who would not speak for attribution, said that Mr. Bush's sharp comment on Wednesday morning was an effort to remind Mr. Kerry of his own criteria for a vice president.

The New York Times

The antithesis of a rulebook automaton, he is authoritative without being condescending and balances sharp comment with quick humour.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sharp comment," ensure that the tone and content align with the overall message and intended effect. Overuse can lead to a perception of negativity or aggression.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "sharp" always implies negativity. While it can indicate criticism, it also suggests intelligence and insight. Balance the critical aspect with constructive intent to ensure the comment is well-received and contributes positively to the discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp comment" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to a specific instance of a remark that is characterized by its insightful or critical nature. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used in news and media to describe remarks made by people in public, or public reactions to specific events.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sharp comment" is a noun phrase used to describe a remark that is both insightful and potentially critical. As verified by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and used primarily in news and media contexts. The phrase is generally considered neutral in register, though it can become more formal depending on the context of the source and use case. When employing "a sharp comment", it's important to consider that the term "sharp" doesn't always mean negative – it can highlight intelligence and insight, making it crucial to balance potential criticism with constructive intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a biting remark

Focuses on the negative and critical aspect of the comment.

a cutting remark

Emphasizes the hurtful or offensive nature of the comment.

an incisive observation

Highlights the insightful and perceptive quality of the comment.

a critical assessment

Stresses the evaluative and judgmental nature of the comment.

a pointed remark

Indicates that the comment is direct and aimed at a specific target.

a sarcastic comment

Highlights the use of irony or mockery in the comment.

a witty retort

Focuses on the clever and humorous nature of the comment.

a scathing criticism

Emphasizes the severity and harshness of the comment.

a trenchant observation

Highlights the penetrating and insightful quality of the comment.

a keen insight

Focuses on the intelligence and understanding revealed in the comment.

FAQs

What does "a sharp comment" mean?

The phrase "a sharp comment" refers to a remark that is insightful, intelligent, and often critical or pointed. It suggests the comment is well-formulated and has a clear, sometimes cutting, edge.

How can I use "a sharp comment" in a sentence?

You can use "a sharp comment" to describe someone's insightful or critical remark. For example: "Her sharp comment about the presentation caught everyone's attention," or "He made a sharp comment about the company's financial performance."

What are some alternatives to "a sharp comment"?

You can use alternatives like "a biting remark", "a cutting remark", or "an incisive observation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a sharp comment" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "a sharp comment" when you want to emphasize the intelligence and potential criticality of a remark. Use it in contexts where insightful or evaluative feedback is relevant.