a sharp opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp opinion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong, clear, or pointed viewpoint on a particular issue or topic. Example: "During the debate, she expressed a sharp opinion on the importance of climate change action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But Ms. Manderson has learned to swallow when she has a sharp opinion about a stranger.

The New York Times

Upon this vagueness, it becomes quite difficult to address a sharp opinion or comment, while the final result allows for multiple interpretations and diverse (general and subjective) ideas.

City, Territory and Architecture

Stephen Reinhardt, 86, an appointee of President Jimmy Carter who is also the longest-serving member on the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, which Trump has often criticized, issued a sharp opinion Tuesday expressing his dismay over the move to deport a father of three with deep ties to Hawaii.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The phone call could include a long silence, followed by a giggle, then a burst of sharp opinion.

The Guardian - Music

"There are hardly any young comics coming out with any sharp opinions," said one promoter, "be it political or ironic racism, or sexist, or whatever.

The Guardian

Janis Sharp (Opinion, 17 September) writes "support through difficult times means so much to someone whose life is in limbo.

The Guardian

Meanwhile, the traditional news media chewed over what the arrival of online commentators -- mostly untrained journalists whose stock in trade is the sharp opinion, often quippy -- meant to the political process.

The New York Times - Style

Finalists: Matt Davies for cartoons in the Journal News, Westchester County, New York, work notably original in concept and execution, offering sharp opinion without shrillness; and Joel Pett of the Lexington Herald-Leader, for provocative cartoons that often tackle controversial Kentucky issues, marked by a simple style and a passion for humanity.

The Guardian

Finalists: Matt Davies for cartoons in The Journal News, Westchester County, N.Y., work notably original in concept and execution, offering sharp opinion without shrillness; and Joel Pett of the Lexington Herald-Leader, for provocative cartoons that often tackle controversial Kentucky issues, marked by a simple style and a passion for humanity.

Huffington Post

Fans growing up in the 1970s and 80s knew him chiefly as a presenter of BBC's Match of the Day, on which he showed off his prominent bearded chin and an unfailing readiness to give a sharp-edged opinion.

The Guardian - Sport

In a country where many have Internet access and sharp opinions, communicating online with a mix of humor and fatalism has become an important tool of expression.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing this phrase, ensure the context provides sufficient background to understand the basis and implications of the opinion.

Common error

While acceptable, overuse of "a sharp opinion" can sound repetitive. Consider using alternatives like "a strong view" or "a pointed comment" to add variety to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp opinion" functions as a noun phrase, where "sharp" modifies the noun "opinion". Ludwig AI suggests this phrase is usable in written English and serves to qualify the nature of the opinion being expressed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sharp opinion" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a clear, distinct, and potentially critical viewpoint. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's important to note its usage is relatively uncommon. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts and is suitable for neutral register communication. When using this phrase, consider whether alternatives like "a strong view" or "a pointed comment" might add variety to your writing. Ensure that the context clarifies the foundation and implications of the opinion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong view

Replaces "opinion" with "view" and "sharp" with "strong", focusing on the intensity of the belief.

a pointed comment

Substitutes "opinion" with "comment" and "sharp" with "pointed", highlighting the directness of the statement.

a trenchant observation

Replaces "opinion" with "observation" and "sharp" with "trenchant", emphasizing the incisiveness of the remark.

a critical assessment

Substitutes "sharp opinion" with "critical assessment", focusing on the evaluative nature of the judgment.

a distinct perspective

Replaces "sharp opinion" with "distinct perspective", highlighting the uniqueness of the viewpoint.

a firm conviction

Emphasizes the unwavering nature of the belief.

a decisive judgment

Focuses on the resolute nature of the decision.

a keen insight

Highlights the perspicacity of the understanding.

an incisive analysis

Emphasizes the depth and thoroughness of the examination.

a forceful argument

Stresses the power and persuasiveness of the reasoning.

FAQs

How can I express "a sharp opinion" without using the word "sharp"?

You can use phrases like "a strong opinion", "a pointed opinion", or "a critical assessment" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a sharp opinion" always negative?

Not necessarily. While "sharp" can sometimes imply criticism, "a sharp opinion" simply indicates a clear and well-defined viewpoint, which can be either positive or negative depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a sharp opinion" and "an informed opinion"?

"A sharp opinion" suggests a clear and distinct viewpoint, while "an informed opinion" indicates that the opinion is based on knowledge and understanding of the subject. You can have an informed opinion that isn't necessarily sharp, and vice versa.

When is it appropriate to express "a sharp opinion"?

It's appropriate to express "a sharp opinion" when you have a clear understanding of the subject matter, and when the situation calls for a direct and assertive statement of your viewpoint. However, consider the audience and context to ensure your opinion is well-received.