razor-sharp

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "razor-sharp" is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something that is extremely sharp or finely honed, such as a blade, a piece of wit, or someone's intellect. For example: "He had a razor-sharp intellect that allowed him to easily solve even the most difficult puzzles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

It is razor-sharp.

The New York Times

Their razor-sharp edges were virtually intact.

The New Yorker

"He has a razor-sharp business brain".

The New York Times - Arts

Think of them as razor-sharp freckles.

Britannica

Anthony McGowan's insight is razor-sharp.

The Guardian - Books

Her questions were intelligent, razor-sharp.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

The partisan divisions were razor sharp.

The New York Times

Holmes's writing ranges from plodding to razor sharp.

The New York Times - Books

So at the moment, my curry skills are razor sharp.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He looks razor sharp at the crease and fiercely driven.

The Guardian - Sport

He is optimistic, razor sharp and extremely witty.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "razor-sharp" to vividly describe qualities that are precise, intelligent, or intensely focused, avoiding overuse in contexts where simpler adjectives suffice. For instance, describe a "razor-sharp" wit or a "razor-sharp" focus, rather than a "razor-sharp" object unless its edge is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "razor-sharp" when describing abstract concepts that do not logically relate to sharpness or precision. Describing emotions as "razor-sharp", for example, can be confusing if not handled carefully; instead, opt for words like 'intense' or 'acute'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "razor-sharp" primarily functions as a compound adjective. It modifies nouns to indicate an extremely high degree of sharpness, either literally (e.g., a knife) or figuratively (e.g., wit or intellect). Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing various attributes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "razor-sharp" is a compound adjective commonly used to describe something as exceptionally sharp, precise, or intelligent. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media, as well as wiki and science contexts. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for various writing styles. When using "razor-sharp", it is best to emphasize qualities of precision and focus, while avoiding misuse in abstract contexts where the meaning might be unclear. Alternatives such as "incisive" or "sharp-witted" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp-witted

A more direct synonym focusing on intelligence and humor.

incisive

Refers specifically to a clear and direct analytical ability.

razorlike

It is almost an exact synonym but less common.

keen-edged

Focuses more on the physical sharpness of an edge.

astute

Suggests a clever and discerning intellect.

needle-sharp

Emphasizes extreme precision and fineness.

penetrating

Suggests a deep and insightful understanding.

acute

Highlights the intensity and perceptiveness.

brilliant

Broadly indicates exceptional intelligence or skill.

quick-witted

Emphasizes the speed and intelligence of someone's mind.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "razor-sharp" in a sentence?

Use "razor-sharp" to describe something that is extremely precise, clever, or focused. For example, "Her "razor-sharp wit" made her a formidable debater" or "The surgeon's "razor-sharp precision" saved the patient's life".

What are some alternatives to "razor-sharp"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "incisive", "acute", "keen-edged", or "sharp-witted" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "razor sharp" or "razor-sharp" correct?

"Razor-sharp" is generally preferred as a compound adjective modifying a noun. While "razor sharp" might be used descriptively (e.g., "The knife was razor sharp"), "razor-sharp" is more common and grammatically standard when used before the noun (e.g., "a razor-sharp knife").

What's the difference between "razor-sharp" and "sharp"?

"Razor-sharp" implies a much higher degree of sharpness or acuity than simply "sharp". While "sharp" indicates a cutting edge or intelligence, "razor-sharp" suggests an extreme level of precision or intellectual keenness.