clear cut

USAGE SUMMARY

"clear cut" is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English.
It is often used to describe a situation that is especially clear and straightforward, with no ambiguity or uncertainty. For example, "The rules of the game were clear cut: no talking, no phones, no cheating."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"Wales is fairly clear cut.

The Guardian

His answer was clear cut.

The Guardian - Film

The clear cut winner?

TechCrunch

Our results are clear cut.

NeuroImage

Their position is clear cut.

BBC

The Nordic performance was less clear cut.

Research Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

A clear-cut case.

The New York Times

It's clear-cut.

Independent

Zimbabwe was clear-cut.

The New Yorker

She wanted clear-cut evidence".

The New York Times

MacArthur demands clear-cut evidence.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “clear-cut” (hyphenated) when using the term as a compound adjective before a noun (a clear-cut case), but not when used as a verb (to clear cut a forest).

Common error

Avoid using "clear cut" to describe situations that involve numerous factors or subjective opinions, as this can oversimplify the matter and mislead readers. Acknowledge complexity where it exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear cut" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate a lack of ambiguity or complexity. It describes situations, decisions, or evidence that are straightforward and easily understood. Ludwig shows its widespread use across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

39%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clear cut" is a commonly used adjective phrase that describes something straightforward and unambiguous. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in news, science, and general contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid oversimplification and apply it judiciously to scenarios genuinely lacking complexity. Related phrases like unambiguous or "straightforward" offer nuanced alternatives, while mindful application ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unambiguous

Focuses on the lack of multiple interpretations, highlighting clarity in meaning.

Unequivocal

Emphasizes the absence of doubt or hesitation, suggesting a firm and decisive stance.

Straightforward

Highlights the simplicity and directness of the situation or solution.

Definitive

Stresses the conclusiveness and authoritativeness of a decision or outcome.

Explicit

Focuses on the clarity and detail of the information provided.

Obvious

Implies that something is easily perceived or understood without needing explanation.

Self-evident

Indicates that something is inherently clear and requires no proof.

Beyond doubt

Emphasizes the certainty and lack of any uncertainty surrounding a fact or situation.

Patently obvious

Stresses the obvious nature of something to an almost undeniable degree.

Black and white

Highlights the lack of ambiguity or gray areas, suggesting a clear distinction between options.

FAQs

How can I use "clear cut" in a sentence?

You can use "clear cut" to describe something that is unambiguous and easy to understand, such as "The rules were "clear cut", leaving no room for interpretation" or "The evidence provided a "clear cut" case of fraud".

What's a less formal alternative to "clear cut"?

If you're looking for a less formal way to say "clear cut", consider using phrases like "obvious", "straightforward", or "plain", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to write "clear-cut" or "clear cut"?

Both "clear cut" and "clear-cut" are correct, but they're used in different contexts. Use "clear-cut" as a compound adjective before a noun (e.g., "a clear-cut decision"), and "clear cut" as a verb (e.g., "to clear cut a forest") or when 'clear' modifies 'cut' directly (e.g. The policy was clear, cut and dry.

What is the difference between "clear cut" and "unambiguous"?

"Clear cut" suggests a situation or decision that is straightforward and easily understood, whereas "unambiguous" emphasizes the lack of multiple interpretations or uncertainties. "Clear cut" can apply to situations, while "unambiguous" typically refers to information or statements.