incisive

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "incisive" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used to describe a person or their actions as being insightful and providing keen analysis. Example sentence: His incisive comments on the state of the world economy provided valuable insight.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A narrow win for Bayern Munich on the night – and a comfortable Barcelona victory overall – was just reward for Luis Enrique's team, who were again wonderfully supple and incisive in attack when it mattered.

The Guardian - Sport

The former was industrious rather than incisive, the latter vomiting upon his return to the bench having been substituted midway through the second period.

The Guardian - Sport

An incisive passing move ended with Isco playing the ball into the feet of Bale in the area and, although the Welshman's shot was weak and straight at Torrico, it somehow squirmed under the goalkeeper and into the net.

The Guardian - Sport

His first book, The Break-up of the Habsburg Empire, 1914-18, publinhed in 1961, is still the best single work on the subject and is naturally incisive on the Czechs.

The Guardian - Books

The man is a genius, and as long as you remember that he is first and foremost a comedian – a point he has made numerous times – you cannot help but appreciate his incisive satire.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Commenting on her appointment, Katharine Viner said: "Being editor-in-chief of the Guardian and Observer is an enormous privilege and responsibility, leading a first class team of journalists revered around the world for outstanding reporting, independent thinking, incisive analysis and digital innovation.

The Guardian

Political editor Nick Robinson, absent in the campaign but now back from lung surgery, was still hoarse but as incisive as ever and Laura Kuenssberg showed why more women should have a place at the top table of analysis.

The Guardian

Defending Carmichael's right to stay put on BBC radio on Tuesday, his veteran Westminster colleague Malcolm Bruce was asked if lying was widespread in public life; to which he produced the incisive reply: "No.

The Guardian - Opinion

The implications and execution of these removals is fairly complicated, but it astounded me how much of the discussion – even off the back of clear and incisive commentary from James Ball on Wednesday – was characterised by a lazy refusal to engage with what's actually happening.

The Guardian - Tech

There have been legal reparations, insufficient of course, but symbolically incisive.

The Guardian

The Spaniard's incisive passes were sadly missed against defensively solid teams in the Champions League.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "incisive" to describe analysis or commentary that is particularly sharp, clear, and effective in cutting through complexities.

Common error

Avoid using "incisive" when a simpler adjective like "clear" or "sharp" would suffice. "Incisive" is best reserved for situations where there is genuine depth and penetration of thought.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "incisive" primarily functions to modify nouns, describing qualities such as analysis, comments, or writing. It signifies a sharp, penetrating, and effective quality, as supported by Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "incisive" is a versatile term used to describe something sharp, penetrating, and effective. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and suitable for describing analysis, commentary, or writing. Predominantly found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, it conveys clarity and depth. When writing, reserve "incisive" for descriptions that genuinely cut through complexity, and consider alternatives like "penetrating" or "acute" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insightful

Emphasizes the depth of understanding and wisdom.

penetrating

Focuses on the depth of understanding and ability to see through complexities.

acute

Emphasizes the sharpness and quickness of perception.

keen

Highlights the eagerness and enthusiasm in understanding.

trenchant

Suggests a forceful and effective expression of ideas.

sharp-witted

Specifically refers to someone with a quick and clever mind.

perspicacious

Emphasizes the ability to understand things quickly and accurately.

astute

Highlights shrewdness and practical intelligence.

discerning

Focuses on the ability to judge well, especially in subtle matters.

analytical

Highlights the use of a systematic, logical approach.

FAQs

How can I use "incisive" in a sentence?

You can use "incisive" to describe someone's analysis or commentary that is particularly sharp and penetrates to the core of the issue. For example, "Her incisive questions revealed the flaws in the plan."

What words are similar to "incisive"?

Similar words include "penetrating", "acute", and "insightful", which all describe a sharp and deep understanding.

Is it better to say "incisive" or "insightful"?

"Incisive" emphasizes the sharpness and directness of the analysis, while "insightful" emphasizes the depth of understanding. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does "incisive" mean?

"Incisive" means intelligently analytical and concise, or having the quality of cutting or penetrating, like a sharp instrument. It is often used to describe someone's remarks or analysis.