cutting edge

USAGE SUMMARY

"cutting edge" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to describe something that is the most modern and advanced. For example: This new product is a cutting-edge technological development that will revolutionize the way we do business.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

But cutting edge?

The New York Times - Arts

It's cutting edge".

The New York Times

Hardly cutting edge.

Independent

"It really is cutting edge.

The New York Times

Not exactly cutting edge.

The New York Times - Travel

Talk about cutting edge.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Cutting-edge music required cutting-edge visuals.

The Guardian - Music

Its operations are cutting-edge.

The New York Times

Cutting-edge food, of course.

The New York Times - Travel

Cutting-edge technology it wasn't.

The Economist

It's cutting-edge stuff.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cutting edge" to describe innovations in technology, research, or design. For example, "The company is developing cutting edge software."

Common error

Avoid using "cutting edge" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, try using synonyms like "state-of-the-art" or "leading-edge" to diversify your vocabulary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cutting edge" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate that something is at the forefront of technology or innovation. As Ludwig AI states, it is a correct and usable phrase. Examples from Ludwig show it describing technology, ideas, and research.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

27%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cutting edge" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something at the forefront of innovation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and useful phrase in written English. The analysis reveals it's most frequently used in News & Media and Academic contexts, denoting advanced technology, ideas, or research. While alternatives like "state-of-the-art" and "leading-edge" exist, "cutting edge" effectively conveys the sense of being the newest and most advanced. Be mindful of overuse to maintain the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

state-of-the-art

Focuses on the technology being the most advanced currently available.

leading-edge

Highlights the position at the forefront of development and innovation.

advanced

Emphasizes a high level of skill or technical development.

innovative

Stresses the novelty and creativity involved.

groundbreaking

Focuses on the idea that something is new and revolutionary.

pioneering

Indicates being the first to develop or use something.

avant-garde

Suggests a departure from conventional or traditional methods.

trailblazing

Implies creating new paths and opportunities.

futuristic

Highlights the idea of being ahead of its time or resembling the future.

next-generation

Highlights the idea of the newest technology, a generation ahead of the current one.

FAQs

How can I use "cutting edge" in a sentence?

Use "cutting edge" to describe something at the forefront of technology or innovation. For example, "This research represents the cutting edge of medical science."

What is the difference between "cutting edge" and "state-of-the-art"?

"Cutting edge" implies being the newest and most advanced, often experimental, while "state-of-the-art" suggests being the best available right now, fully developed and reliable.

What are some alternatives to using "cutting edge"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "innovative", "advanced", or "groundbreaking".

Is it appropriate to use "cutting edge" in formal writing?

Yes, "cutting edge" is appropriate in formal writing when describing advancements or innovations. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your piece. You can also consider "leading-edge" as an alternative.