air of sharpness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "air of sharpness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quality or atmosphere that is characterized by clarity, precision, or intensity, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The debate had an air of sharpness, as each participant articulated their points with remarkable clarity and conviction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Even playing the sloppy, grief-addled drunk of "The Bad Seed," Ms. Heckart always gave off an air of sharpness and strength, with her polished gravel voice and the slow, toothsome smile that suggested she knew something you didn't.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Thomas Cabaniss's score lends moments of minimal, repetitive sharpness and an air of mystery to this version of the natural world, but like Ms. Easton's tale, it is overly literal.

The New York Times - Arts

Liverpool obviously dominated possession, but were well short of sharpness.

The Telegraph

We missed that last bit of sharpness," said Sneijder.

Independent

But she was still capable of sharpness and command.

The Guardian - Books

Leitz lenses are astonishingly good in terms of sharpness, resolution and colour rendition.

The Guardian - Arts

Then there is the issue of sharpness.

Science Magazine

We lacked a bit of sharpness.

BBC

"There's been an extra bit of sharpness in training.

BBC

I don't think it is a question of sharpness.

BBC

"In the end it was one bit of sharpness.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "air of sharpness" to describe situations or individuals characterized by keen intellect or incisive thinking.

Common error

Avoid using "air of sharpness" in informal settings where a simpler expression would suffice; it's better suited for formal or descriptive writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "air of sharpness" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. As seen in the example from Ludwig, it modifies or describes the atmosphere or quality of something, denoting clarity and precision.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

34%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "air of sharpness" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a situation or individual characterized by clarity, precision, or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare, its appropriate use enhances descriptive writing, particularly in formal contexts like news reporting or analytical essays. Related phrases include "sense of acuity" and "atmosphere of precision". When writing, use "air of sharpness" to highlight intellectual rigor, but avoid overuse in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sense of acuity

Focuses on the quality of being keenly perceptive.

atmosphere of precision

Emphasizes the exactness and accuracy present.

aura of intensity

Highlights the strong and concentrated nature.

feeling of keenness

Emphasizes the enthusiasm or eagerness present.

quality of incisiveness

Focuses on directness and decisiveness.

impression of focus

Highlights the concentration and clarity.

hint of brilliance

Emphasizes a spark of intelligence or skill.

undertone of severity

Suggests a serious or stern quality.

essence of clarity

Emphasizes the pure and distinct quality of being clear.

touch of intellectualism

Hints at a thoughtful and intelligent approach.

FAQs

How can I use "air of sharpness" in a sentence?

You can use "air of sharpness" to describe an atmosphere or quality characterized by clarity, precision, or intensity. For example: "The debate had an "air of sharpness", as each participant articulated their points with remarkable clarity and conviction."

What's a good substitute for "air of sharpness"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "sense of acuity", "atmosphere of precision", or "aura of intensity".

Is "air of sharpness" formal or informal?

"Air of sharpness" leans towards the formal side. It's best suited for descriptive or analytical writing where precision in language is valued.

What does "air of sharpness" imply?

It suggests a quality or atmosphere that is distinctly clear, focused, and possibly intense, indicating a high degree of intellectual or perceptive ability.