cutting remarks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cutting remarks" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is often used to describe remarks or comments that are sharp, hurtful, or incisive in nature. Example: "Despite her friendly demeanor, Sarah couldn't help but make cutting remarks about her co-worker's mistakes during the team meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 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

We began to argue, and in the presence of his aides, Boone made cutting remarks about my work.

The New York Times - Magazine

I can still picture the contemptuous face and the cutting remarks she would make when my dad went on and on about how bananas were nature's perfect food.

The New Yorker

For example, the role of the Dowager Countess, who interjects cutting remarks at the most inopportune moments, has been undertaken by our younger ones.

The New Yorker

Miller's mother, the pushy Augusta, filled her husband's mournful silence with cutting remarks about his various failures and about what might have been.

The New Yorker

But, as Brown reveals, those cutting remarks and outrageous scenes were a form of bizarre achievement and autonomy in a life that was otherwise barren.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

If someone, in anger, makes cutting remarks about a supervisor, your best bet is to say nothing.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cutting remarks" when you want to emphasize the sharp, incisive, and potentially hurtful nature of someone's comments. It is particularly effective when describing dialogue or portraying character dynamics in literature or film.

Common error

While "cutting remarks" is widely understood, it carries a slightly formal and literary tone. Avoid using it excessively in casual conversation or informal writing, as it might sound affected or out of place. Consider alternatives like "sharp comments" or "pointed remarks" for a more natural feel.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cutting remarks" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "cutting" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "remarks". It is used to describe the nature or quality of the remarks being made. Ludwig confirms its frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cutting remarks" is a commonly used phrase to describe sharp and often hurtful comments. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news, media, and more formal contexts. While generally negative, the phrase can also be used satirically. When employing "cutting remarks" in your writing, consider the potential formality and ensure that it fits the overall tone. Alternatives such as "sharp comments" or "pointed remarks" might be more appropriate in casual settings. Remember that, according to Ludwig, this phrase highlights the sharpness and incisiveness of comments, so use it when you want to emphasize the critical or sarcastic nature of speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp comments

Emphasizes the acuteness and pointed nature of the comments.

pointed remarks

Highlights the directness and intentionality behind the remarks.

acerbic comments

Indicates a more bitter and sarcastic tone in the comments.

caustic statements

Suggests that the statements are corrosive and severely critical.

biting criticisms

Focuses on the harsh and painful quality of the criticisms.

sarcastic remarks

Highlights the use of irony to convey contempt or mockery.

acidic comments

Implies a corrosive and unpleasant quality in the comments.

scathing criticisms

Suggests that the criticisms are extremely severe and damaging.

harsh words

Emphasizes the severity and unpleasantness of the language used.

critical comments

Focuses on the judgmental nature of the comments.

FAQs

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

You can use "cutting remarks" to describe someone's speech or writing style, for example: "Her writing was filled with "cutting remarks" about modern society" or "He often made "cutting remarks" that made others uncomfortable".

What's the difference between "cutting remarks" and "harsh criticism"?

"Cutting remarks" implies a sharpness and precision, often intended to wound, whereas "harsh criticism" refers more broadly to severe disapproval. "Cutting remarks" are often delivered with wit or sarcasm, while harsh criticism may be more straightforward.

What are some synonyms for "cutting remarks"?

Synonyms for "cutting remarks" include "sharp comments", "pointed remarks", "sarcastic remarks", and "biting criticisms". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Are "cutting remarks" always negative?

Yes, "cutting remarks" generally have a negative connotation. They suggest that the speaker or writer is being critical or unkind. However, they can also be used in a humorous or satirical way, depending on the context.