a shrewd observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shrewd observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a keen or astute remark or insight about a situation or topic. Example: "Her analysis of the market trends was a shrewd observation that impressed everyone in the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

One local architect describes it as "an aquarium without the fish" and it's a shrewd observation.

The Guardian - Arts

This was a shrewd observation, says Alexandr Vondra, a deputy prime minister.

The Economist

Even if as only a commentary on the sporadic nature of US involvement over the years, that is surely a shrewd observation.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a shrewd observation, and might seem peculiar only because Fukuyama's own "End of History" articulated the world's most eloquent argument for detecting within the collapse of Communism the deepest laws of history.

The New York Times - Books

Dr Matt Boardman Trainee GP Manchester Edward Bond once said something like: "We define ourselves by what we allow to make us angry", which I have always felt was a shrewd observation.

The Guardian

One is a shrewd observation of culturally influenced behavior; the other is an ad hominem insult and the perpetuation of a disparaging stereotype (not to mention comic material from the Eisenhower administration).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It is all shrewd observation, common sense and good humor.

The New York Times

As one looks back on the music of the last century this seems a remarkably shrewd observation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So that's a very shrewd observation in response to that diagram, and it actually gets to more sophisticated questions about redistribution and utilitarianism that I'm going to take up on Monday.

Yale University

Already in Temporis Partus Masculus (1603) Bacon had displayed a "facility of shrewd observation" (Sessions 1999, 60) concerning his ideas on induction.

SEP

Lévy's writing has always been an arms race between shrewd observation and rapt self-absorption, but that's not the only problem here.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a shrewd observation" to highlight someone's ability to understand complex situations and make insightful comments. It adds a layer of appreciation for their intellectual capacity.

Common error

Avoid using "a shrewd observation" in casual conversations. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in everyday settings. Opt for simpler terms like "good point" or "that's interesting".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shrewd observation" functions as a noun phrase, where "shrewd" is an adjective modifying the noun "observation". This noun phrase typically serves as a subject complement or direct object, attributing a quality of insightful intelligence to a specific remark or analysis. As noted by Ludwig, it is a correct and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a shrewd observation" is a grammatically sound and semantically rich phrase used to commend insightful comments or analyses. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and utility in written English. While the phrase isn't very common, it's primarily found in news, encyclopedic, and academic contexts, suggesting a more formal and professional register. Alternatives like "a keen insight" or "an astute remark" can be used for similar effect. Use this phrase to highlight someone's perceptive abilities, but avoid overuse in casual settings to maintain appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a keen insight

Focuses on the depth and sharpness of understanding.

an astute remark

Highlights the cleverness and perceptiveness of the comment.

a perceptive comment

Emphasizes the ability to understand and notice things quickly and accurately.

an insightful analysis

Suggests a deeper, more thorough understanding of a complex issue.

a clever deduction

Implies a logical and inventive process of reaching a conclusion.

a smart assessment

Highlights the intelligence and good judgment in the evaluation.

a canny assessment

Emphasizes the shrewdness and practicality of the evaluation.

a discerning judgment

Focuses on the ability to discriminate and make fine distinctions.

a sagacious remark

Highlights the wisdom and good judgment in the statement.

a prescient insight

Suggests foresight and the ability to predict future events or trends.

FAQs

How can I use "a shrewd observation" in a sentence?

You can use "a shrewd observation" to describe someone's insightful comment or analysis, such as, "Her analysis of the market trends was "a shrewd observation" that impressed everyone in the meeting".

What are some alternatives to "a shrewd observation"?

Some alternatives include "a keen insight", "an astute remark", or "a perceptive comment". These phrases convey a similar meaning while varying the tone and emphasis.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a shrewd observation"?

It is appropriate to use "a shrewd observation" in formal writing, professional settings, or when you want to emphasize the intelligence and insightfulness of a particular remark. Avoid using it in very casual conversations where simpler terms would be more suitable.

What's the difference between "a shrewd observation" and "a clever remark"?

"A shrewd observation" implies a deeper understanding and insight into a situation, while "a clever remark" simply suggests wit or ingenuity. "A shrewd observation" is more about intellectual depth, whereas "a clever remark" focuses on the cleverness of the statement.