lack of sharpness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of sharpness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deficiency in clarity, focus, or precision, often in relation to images, ideas, or arguments. Example: "The lack of sharpness in the photograph made it difficult to see the details of the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

It was a lack of sharpness instead of a lack of fitness.

The New York Times - Sports

Their lack of sharpness showed, and the next game looms large.

The New York Times - Sports

A lack of sharpness and surprise in the writing is compounded by Stephen Unwin's lacklustre production.

Independent

After Game 1, he would not blame extra rest for his lack of sharpness.

The New York Times - Sports

Manuel attributed his struggles to a lack of sharpness due to recent inactivity.

The New York Times - Sports

The Dutchman admitted there was "less confidence" in the camp and suggested a lack of sharpness was another factor.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Somehow she made it to London 2012 but a lack of race sharpness told in the 1500m semi-finals.

The Guardian - Sport

Fears over a lack of match sharpness were dispelled in her victory over Keys and Williams is feeling strong.

The Guardian - Sport

Considering their nothing-to-lose attitude coupled with England's lack of goalscoring sharpness, would it be really wise to doubt them?

The Guardian - Sport

Like DC, they had their chances against Tigres, but Yura Movsisyan's 40th-minute glaring miss summed up their lack of attacking sharpness.

The Guardian - Sport

I'll push back the decision until I really have to [make it]." Similarly he has no concerns, at present, over Jack Wilshere's lack of match sharpness.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual media, use "lack of sharpness" to pinpoint a deficiency in image clarity, which can stem from issues like poor focus or low resolution.

Common error

Avoid using "lack of sharpness" when describing abstract ideas if more precise terms like "lack of clarity" or "lack of precision" would better capture the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of sharpness" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As shown by Ludwig, it describes a deficiency or absence of clarity, focus, or precision in a particular context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

18%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lack of sharpness" is a noun phrase used to describe a deficiency in clarity, focus, or precision. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts. With examples spanning from news media to academic papers, the phrase is commonly employed to pinpoint shortcomings in visual media, performance, or conceptual understanding. While alternatives like "absence of clarity" or "deficiency in focus" exist, "lack of sharpness" remains a precise and widely understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of clarity

This alternative emphasizes the missing quality of being clear and easy to understand.

deficiency in focus

This highlights a problem with concentration or proper targeting of attention or resources.

blurriness

This term directly relates to a visual lack of clarity, often in images.

absence of definition

Focuses on the lack of distinctness or clear boundaries.

imprecision

This indicates a lack of exactness or accuracy.

want of acuity

This highlights a deficiency in keenness or sharpness of perception or intellect.

lack of crispness

This suggests a deficiency in the quality of being sharp, clear, and well-defined.

dullness

Implies a lack of keenness or interest.

absence of edge

Highlights a lack of intensity or excitement.

lack of incisiveness

Suggests a deficiency in the quality of being sharply focused and effective.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of sharpness" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of sharpness" to describe various scenarios where something is not clear or precise. For example, "The photo's lack of sharpness made it difficult to identify the details" or "The team's lack of sharpness in the final third cost them the game".

What are some alternatives to "lack of sharpness"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "absence of clarity", "deficiency in focus", or "blurriness".

Is it correct to say "a sharpness lack" instead of "lack of sharpness"?

No, the standard and grammatically correct phrasing is "lack of sharpness". "A sharpness lack" is not idiomatic and would sound unnatural to native English speakers.

When is it appropriate to use "lack of sharpness" versus "lack of clarity"?

"Lack of sharpness" is often used in contexts relating to visual clarity or precision in performance, while "lack of clarity" applies more broadly to understanding concepts or ideas. While similar, "lack of clarity" often refers to a more general absence of comprehensibility.