pointed remark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pointed remark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a comment that is sharp, direct, or intended to criticize or highlight a particular issue. Example: "Her pointed remark about his tardiness made everyone in the room uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

And Beauvoir could flit between high-minded philosophy and a pointed remark without any trouble at all.

Independent

Clinton appeared on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday and described Albright's comment as a "light-hearted but very pointed remark".

The Guardian

Jean-Claude Trichet, president of the European Central Bank, made the most pointed remark, saying that "brutal moves" in exchange rates were unwelcome.

The New York Times

EXTRA POINTS Coach AL GROH had a rather pointed remark when asked about the firing of Redskins Coach NORV TURNER today by DANIEL SNYDER, the team's owner.

The New York Times - Sports

"The big joy has gone right now," was Schumacher's pointed remark in the wake of a miserable race in which he finished 12th and was often bullied out of positions.

Independent

ONE of the last statements by Pope John Paul before he went into hospital on February 1st was an apparently banal but in fact pointed remark about the European Union.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

At one point, he made pointed remarks about the news media — and The New York Times in particular — for its scant or nonexistent coverage of the shooting death of a 17-year-old boy in the Bronx last week.

The New York Times

There were only a few other pointed remarks.

The New York Times

Obama made pointed remarks on democracy and press freedom.

The Guardian

But he made some more pointed remarks in an encounter with Ms. LaCapra of Reuters.

The New York Times

His most pointed remarks concerned the administration's role in Middle East peace talks over the years.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pointed remark" when you want to describe a comment that is both direct and carries a critical or significant implication. It's useful for highlighting a specific issue or concern.

Common error

Avoid using "pointed remark" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your vocabulary with alternatives like "sharp comment" or "critical observation" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pointed remark" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "pointed" modifies the noun "remark". It serves to describe a specific type of comment that is characterized by its sharpness and directness. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pointed remark" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that describes a comment intended to be sharp and direct. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to highlight an issue or express criticism, making it suitable for various contexts, especially in news and media. While versatile, avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms like "sharp comment" or "critical observation". Remember, a well-placed "pointed remark" can be effective, but strategic use ensures its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp comment

Replaces "pointed" with "sharp", emphasizing the incisive nature of the comment.

critical observation

Substitutes "remark" with "observation", highlighting the analytical aspect of the comment.

incisive comment

Uses "incisive" to describe the remark, stressing its sharpness and directness.

direct criticism

Replaces the noun "remark" with "criticism", making the negative aspect explicit.

astute observation

Uses "astute" to characterize the remark as insightful and perceptive.

cutting remark

Emphasizes the potentially hurtful nature of the comment.

trenchant observation

Highlights the keenness and forcefulness of the remark.

caustic comment

Stresses the biting and sarcastic quality of the remark.

penetrating statement

Focuses on the remark's ability to delve deeply into a matter.

deliberate barb

Indicates that the remark was intentionally hurtful or critical.

FAQs

How can I use "pointed remark" in a sentence?

You can use "pointed remark" to describe a comment that is direct and often critical. For example, "Her "pointed remark" about his leadership style made him defensive."

What is a good synonym for "pointed remark"?

Alternatives include "sharp comment", "critical observation", or "incisive comment". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "pointed remark" formal or informal?

"Pointed remark" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal settings, consider using a synonym like "astute observation".

What's the difference between a "pointed remark" and a "casual comment"?

A "pointed remark" is intentional and often critical, whereas a "casual comment" is more offhand and not intended to carry significant weight or criticism.