cutting-edge field

USAGE SUMMARY

'cutting-edge field' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that is up-to-date, pioneering, or innovative, e.g. "My professor works in a cutting-edge field of artificial intelligence research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Dundee started three new postgrad courses last year in the cutting-edge field of biological mechanical engineering, which includes tissue engineering.

The Guardian

The cutting-edge field of "biophysics" encompasses the study of biological systems using physical methods and the description of such systems through quantitative models and fundamental physical principals.

University of California, Berkeley

Develop highly trained scientists in a cutting-edge field that encompasses the use of mathematics, high energy physics, technology and other cross-disciplinary fields.

University of California, Berkeley

Why this student moved thousands of miles, from Mexico to New York, to get an education in the cutting-edge field of Applied Analytics.

Columbia University

Deeply textured and cleverly crafted, Mind and Life is an excellent opportunity for any reader to join in the debate surrounding this cutting-edge field of inquiry.

Columbia University

CGI animation remains badly in need of new blood – last year's Inside Out, scraping into the all-time top 10, was a rare newcomer in a once cutting-edge field short on them this decade.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Advanced manufacturing relies on the marriage of science and engineering in cutting-edge fields.

The New York Times

The Biomedical Computation major prepares students to enter a wide range of cutting-edge fields in academia and industry.

Stanford University

Since the '70s, the indictment has widened to encompass the technologies of information and of life, including the cutting-edge fields of computer science and molecular genetics.

The New Yorker

Still, you've got to acknowledge that our suburban appeal is potent: in recent years, we've been quite successful in nurturing small businesses in cutting-edge fields like information technology and biotechnology.

The New York Times

The hope, the governor said, is to make New York a leader in cutting-edge fields like bioinfomatics, in which computers are used to decipher genes and proteins, and nanoelectronics, in which computer chips are developed to replace damaged nerves.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific field, provide context about what makes it "cutting-edge". For example, specify the new technologies, innovative methods, or recent discoveries that define the field.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling a field as "cutting-edge" without providing concrete evidence. This can make your writing sound vague and unconvincing. Always support your claim with specific details about the field's advancements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cutting-edge field" functions as a noun phrase where "cutting-edge" acts as a compound adjective modifying the noun "field". It characterizes the field as being at the forefront of innovation. This aligns with Ludwig's indication that it's correct for describing up-to-date, pioneering or innovative fields.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

34%

News & Media

43%

Science

23%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cutting-edge field" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe innovative and advanced areas of study or industry. As Ludwig confirms, it's a correct and usable term for highlighting modernity and potential. While not extremely common, it's frequently found in academic, news, and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, it's best practice to provide specific examples to support the claim that the field is indeed "cutting-edge", and this enhances clarity and credibility. Alternatives like "innovative area" or "pioneering domain" can be used for variety, but "cutting-edge field" effectively conveys a sense of being at the forefront of progress.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leading-edge area

Similar to cutting-edge, but with a slightly different emphasis on leadership.

emerging area

Implies that the field is relatively new and still developing.

innovative area

Focuses on the novelty and creativity of the field.

pioneering domain

Emphasizes the field's role in leading the way in new developments.

advanced sector

Highlights the sophisticated and highly developed nature of the field.

vanguard discipline

Stresses the field's position at the forefront of progress and innovation.

state-of-the-art domain

Stresses the use of the most current and technologically advanced methods.

groundbreaking specialty

Emphasizes the revolutionary impact and potential of the field.

trendsetting discipline

Highlights the field's influence on future directions and trends.

new frontier

Suggests the field is an unexplored or developing area.

FAQs

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

You can use "cutting-edge field" to describe an area of study or work that is highly innovative and uses the most advanced technologies. For example, "Biomedical engineering is a "cutting-edge field" that combines engineering principles with medical science."

What are some alternatives to "cutting-edge field"?

Alternatives include "innovative area", "pioneering domain", or "advanced sector". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is "cutting-edge field" formal or informal?

"Cutting-edge field" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is frequently used in academic papers, news articles, and business reports.

What makes a field "cutting-edge"?

A "cutting-edge field" is characterized by its use of the latest technologies, innovative methodologies, and ongoing research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge. It often involves interdisciplinary approaches and addresses complex challenges.