cutting remark

USAGE SUMMARY

"cutting remark" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a remark or comment that is harsh or hurtful, often intended to belittle or criticize someone. Example: "Despite her best efforts, Sarah's boss always managed to make a cutting remark about her work during staff meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The flick of a cutting remark, swiftly followed by "Just kidding!" The eye roll.

The New York Times

A cutting remark that gets sharper and better in its insight as I get older.

The Guardian - Music

The late Henry Miller once added a cutting remark to one of his speeches, which silenced the talkers ina box.

The New Yorker

It is not uncommon to hear someone say, "Who said that?!" on the streets of Lima after a particularly cutting remark.

The New York Times

Whenever she came out with an exceptionally cutting remark, Nick wanted to take her in his arms and tell her, Your mammy and your daddy would be so proud.

The New Yorker

She was one of the great French salonists of the 18th century, a mistress of the bon mot and of the cutting remark, an "old blind débauchée of wit," as Horace Walpole described her.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

She made cutting remarks about socialism.

The New York Times

But once the season started, the expectations soared and the cutting remarks grew sharper.

The New York Times - Sports

For all his cutting remarks, Katchor clearly loves the resilient soul of a city.

The Washington Post

One of my children was being subjected to sarcastic and cutting remarks from a co-worker.

The Washington Post

And Ms. Mashariki said she believes the cutting remarks are further forgivable in the heat of wedding planning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cutting remark", consider the context and audience. While it effectively conveys a harsh or critical statement, ensure it aligns with your overall tone and purpose to avoid alienating readers.

Common error

While appropriate in many situations, avoid relying solely on "cutting remark" in formal writing. Explore synonyms like "incisive critique" or "pointed observation" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cutting remark" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "cutting" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "remark". According to Ludwig, it is a correct and commonly used phrase. It describes a specific type of remark, one that is intended to be hurtful or critical.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cutting remark" is a recognized and valid expression in English, denoting a statement designed to wound or criticize. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is indeed correct and commonly used, although its frequency is classified as uncommon. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to categorize and describe the nature of a statement, highlighting its harsh intent and impact. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "caustic comment" or "acerbic statement" to subtly shift the emphasis. Remember to wield the phrase carefully, as its inherently negative connotation can significantly influence the tone and reception of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

biting remark

Emphasizes the sharp and unpleasant quality of the remark, similar to "cutting".

caustic comment

Replaces "cutting" with "caustic", emphasizing the burning or corrosive nature of the remark.

acerbic statement

Uses "acerbic" instead of "cutting", highlighting the sharp and bitter quality of the statement.

wounding observation

Shifts from "remark" to "observation", focusing on the hurtful impact of the comment.

scathing retort

Emphasizes the reactive and fiercely critical nature of the remark by using "scathing retort".

harsh criticism

Replaces "remark" with the more direct term "criticism", highlighting the negative evaluation.

critical comment

A more straightforward alternative, focusing on the judgmental aspect of the remark.

sharp jab

Uses the metaphor of a "sharp jab" to convey the sudden and painful impact of the remark.

pointed barb

Replaces "remark" with "barb", emphasizing the deliberate intent to cause pain or irritation.

sarcastic quip

Highlights the use of sarcasm in the remark, indicating a mocking or contemptuous tone.

FAQs

How to use "cutting remark" in a sentence?

You can use "cutting remark" to describe a harsh or hurtful comment. For example: "Her "cutting remark" silenced the room." or "He dismissed her concerns with a "cutting remark" about her inexperience."

What can I say instead of "cutting remark"?

You can use alternatives like "caustic comment", "acerbic statement", or "wounding observation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "cutting remark" the same as "sarcastic remark"?

While both can be hurtful, a ""cutting remark"" is generally a direct and often harsh criticism. A "sarcastic remark" uses irony or mockery to convey contempt or disapproval, often indirectly.

What's the difference between "cutting remark" and "critical comment"?

A "critical comment" simply expresses judgment, while a ""cutting remark"" implies a sharp, hurtful, or belittling intent.