maintain a sharp edge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "maintain a sharp edge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one wants to convey the idea of keeping skills, knowledge, or tools in optimal condition or performance. Example: "To stay competitive in the market, it's essential to maintain a sharp edge in your industry knowledge and skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hence, abrasive and adhesive wear, which occurs more rapidly on the softer side, acts to maintain a sharp cutting edge on the teeth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That doesn't mean she's missing a sharp edge.

The New York Times - Books

One word cut, a sharp edge of a razor blade.

The Guardian

We're on a sharp edge right now".

The New York Times - Sports

Immediately, angularity implies a sharp edge, or at least a sharp corner.

The New York Times - Arts

And all movements need a sharp edge!

Huffington Post

The Woodster's laughter has a sharp edge.

Huffington Post

It had a sharp edge, but also a distinct elegance.

Los Angeles Times

Chronic inactive lesions have a sharp edge on LFB and few inflammatory cells throughout.

Acta Neuropathologica

Postoperative radiographs showed a sharp edge from harvesting the posterior condyle in all patients.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

All of these IOLs had a sharp edge design of the optic.

BMC Ophthalmology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing skills or knowledge, use "maintain a sharp edge" to emphasize the ongoing effort required to stay proficient and competitive. For instance: "To stay competitive in the market, it's essential to "maintain a sharp edge" in your industry knowledge."

Common error

Avoid using "maintain a sharp edge" in contexts where it implies unnecessary aggression or ruthlessness. It's better suited for highlighting competence and skill rather than a cutthroat approach. For example, instead of saying "The company "maintains a sharp edge" by undercutting competitors at all costs", consider "The company "maintains a competitive edge" through innovation and efficiency."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maintain a sharp edge" functions primarily as a verb phrase, describing the act of preserving or upholding a high level of skill, competence, or readiness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly conveys keeping skills or tools in optimal condition.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "maintain a sharp edge" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that conveys the idea of keeping skills, knowledge, or tools in optimal condition. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and indicates its use in various contexts. While relatively rare, the phrase appears in diverse sources like encyclopedias, news media, science, and wikis. To enhance your writing, consider using it to emphasize the continuous effort required to stay proficient and competitive, while avoiding contexts that might imply unnecessary aggression. Alternatives like "keep a competitive edge" or "stay ahead of the curve" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep a competitive edge

Focuses specifically on maintaining an advantage in a competitive environment.

stay ahead of the curve

Emphasizes continuous improvement and innovation to remain current and effective.

preserve optimal performance

Highlights the act of keeping something at its best operational level.

uphold a high standard

Stresses the consistent application of quality and competence.

sustain peak condition

Indicates maintaining the best possible state of something, often physically or mentally.

retain effectiveness

Highlights maintaining the ability to produce a desired result.

hone one's skills

Implies continuously improving and refining abilities.

keep skills up-to-date

Focuses on ensuring one's knowledge and abilities remain current.

preserve readiness

Emphasizes maintaining a state of preparedness and availability.

ensure continuous improvement

Implies a commitment to always getting better and maintaining high standards.

FAQs

How can I use "maintain a sharp edge" in a sentence?

Use "maintain a sharp edge" to describe the act of keeping skills, knowledge, or tools in optimal condition. For example, "Continuous training helps employees "maintain a sharp edge" in their field."

What are some alternatives to "maintain a sharp edge"?

You can use alternatives such as "keep a competitive edge", "stay ahead of the curve", or "preserve optimal performance" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "maintain a sharp edge"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the continuous effort required to stay proficient, competitive, or effective. It is often used in the contexts of skills, knowledge, or tools.

How does "maintain a sharp edge" differ from "gain a competitive advantage"?

"Maintain a sharp edge" implies sustaining an existing advantage through continuous effort, while "gain a competitive advantage" refers to acquiring a new advantage or improving one's position relative to competitors.