a sharp sword

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp sword" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing weapons, metaphorical language, or literature. Example: "In the story, the hero wielded a sharp sword, symbolizing his readiness to face any challenge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

And as if all that wasn't enough, his old nemesis a bloodthirsty, bisexual samurai with a sharp sword to grind has just hit town.Crudely put, this is "Casablanca" with geishas, and it goes down like warm rice wine.

The Economist

Colonel Jabouri "was a sharp sword against the terrorist groups in Mosul," said a police official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media about the attack.

The New York Times

He turned a sharp sword to both the investigators and the investigated, causing the historian Arthur Schlesinger Jr., writing in Book World, to suggest that Mr. Goodman appeared to lack sympathy for the damage done to some witnesses' lives.

The New York Times - Arts

His appearance was as operatic as his voice, with an electric explosion of pepper-and-salt hair, hawklike features, dandyish clothes, and a beautifully carved cane that concealed (I was thrilled to be told) a sharp sword.

The New Yorker

I say- and it shall surely be- that if Apollo vouchsafes him the glory of stringing it, I will give him a cloak and shirt of good wear, with a javelin to keep off dogs and robbers, and a sharp sword.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Christ, the executor of God's judgment, appears not as Jesus the man but as an omnipotent king riding a white horse with eyes like a flame of fire and a mouth like a sharp sword "with which to smite the nations" (Revelation 19).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"Fetch me a chess board, now," he commanded, "and bring a very sharp sword too". To this the young man became quite nervous.

HuffPost

Google tends to view the world as a series of Gordian knots that just need someone with a suitably sharp sword.

The Guardian - Tech

Which led to the obvious follow-up question: might he be interested in the England job if Lancaster voluntarily falls on the point of a very sharp sword?

Independent

The platform could be an especially sharp sword to brandish against Twitter, which has repeatedly burned its credibility with developers of app clients, data services, and consumer products like Meerkat by suddenly stripping their access to its systems or steamrolling them with acquisitions and in-house projects.

TechCrunch

A drone, called "Sharp Sword" by the media, made a test flight for around 20 minutes in Chengdu, reports said.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sharp sword" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates what the sharpness represents, such as intellect, wit, or strategic advantage.

Common error

Avoid relying on "a sharp sword" as a default metaphor. Instead, consider more original imagery to convey precision, effectiveness, or danger. Overuse can diminish the impact and appear uninspired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp sword" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting a specific type of weapon. As Ludwig AI indicates, it also works well in metaphorical contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a sharp sword" is a noun phrase denoting a weapon characterized by its cutting ability. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, particularly in discussions about weapons, metaphorical language, or literature. While literally referring to a sharpened blade, it's often used metaphorically to describe something incisive or effective. The primary usage contexts include news and media, academia, encyclopedias and wiki sources. Consider alternatives such as "a keen blade" or "a razor-edged sword" for variety. Be mindful of overuse to avoid cliché. It's important to be original and relevant here.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a keen blade

Emphasizes the blade's sharpness and effectiveness.

a razor-edged sword

Highlights the extreme sharpness of the sword.

a honed weapon

Focuses on the weapon's sharpness achieved through honing.

a cutting edge

Metaphorically suggests an advantage or advanced capability.

a piercing blade

Highlights the sword's ability to penetrate.

a fine-edged sword

Emphasizes the quality and precision of the sword's edge.

a well-sharpened sword

Highlights the maintenance and care given to the sword.

a deadly blade

Focuses on the lethal potential of the sword.

an acute blade

Highlights the sharpness and fineness of the blade.

a precise instrument

Suggests accuracy and skill in using the sword.

FAQs

How can "a sharp sword" be used metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "a sharp sword" can represent a keen intellect, incisive wit, or a powerful argument. It suggests precision, effectiveness, and the ability to cut through complexities.

What are some alternatives to "a sharp sword"?

You can use alternatives like "a keen blade", "a razor-edged sword", or "a honed weapon" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a sharp sword" in formal writing?

Yes, "a sharp sword" can be used in formal writing, especially when employed metaphorically to convey a powerful or precise concept. However, ensure the tone remains appropriate for the audience.

What does it mean when someone is described as having "a sharp sword"?

Describing someone as having "a sharp sword" suggests they possess a powerful tool or skill, such as a keen intellect, a sharp wit, or an effective strategy. It implies they are well-equipped to handle challenges.