sharp idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sharp idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a clever or insightful thought or concept. Example: "During the meeting, she presented a sharp idea that could significantly improve our marketing strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

That's the sharp idea behind Zombies, Run! but it's more than just scary sound effects: there's a great story here that will help you stick with it.

The Guardian - Tech

Before capitalism and the market had their evil way, it was characterised by a deep sense of a fractured national identity and by an extraordinarily sharp idea of how a tragic history affected ordinary people.

The Guardian - Film

The forthcoming artistic assessment panel won't be "self-selected" either; they'll be employed by the Arts Council which, if the pilot scheme is anything to go by, now has a reassuringly sharp idea of what it's doing.

The Guardian

The founders have a sharp idea of where the service is headed, including how they will eventually handle revenue.

TechCrunch

Say affirmations like "Okay, yeah! ", "That's the idea!" or "You got it!" and "That's how to do (I did) it!" or "Sharp idea!" Participate in the whole meeting or class activity, discussion, your small group, or paperwork/board work (go to the board and try the problem).

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But he lacks citywide experience or sharp ideas.

The Economist

Rudolph Tanzi, a geneticist at Massachusetts General Hospital, believes this "sucks the life out of young investigators with sharp ideas".

The Economist

There are some sharp ideas tucked alongside the tedious high jinks and rank sexism of "Dillinger Is Dead".

The New York Times

As one would expect from a journalist with Mason's pedigree, there are some sharp ideas lurking among all this.

The Guardian - Books

Produced by JD Twitch, of Optimo, it's full of sharp ideas about disco and house and how they still have underexplored variants.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Zenón went for steadier forward motion, with a flow of sharp ideas, before ceding the spotlight to the loose-limbed drumming of Eric Harland.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sharp idea" when you want to emphasize the clarity, intelligence, and effectiveness of a thought or concept. It suggests that the idea is well-formed and insightful.

Common error

While "sharp idea" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing "sharp" in very formal or academic writing. In such contexts, consider alternatives like "incisive", "astute", or "well-defined" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharp idea" functions as a noun phrase where "sharp" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "idea". It describes a particular quality of the idea, emphasizing its clarity, intelligence, and effectiveness. As Ludwig AI says, it is a correct and usable term.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sharp idea" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, though Ludwig AI signals the necessity to use it with care. It describes a thought or concept that is clear, intelligent, and effective. While not overly formal, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and general discussions. Alternative phrases such as "brilliant concept" or "clever thought" can be used to add variety or to adjust the level of formality. When using "sharp idea", consider the specific context and audience to ensure the tone is appropriate. Overusing the adjective "sharp" may be seen as repetitive, so be mindful of substituting it with alternatives when possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brilliant concept

Replaces "sharp" with "brilliant", focusing on the intelligence of the idea.

clever thought

Substitutes "sharp" with "clever", highlighting ingenuity.

astute notion

Uses "astute" to emphasize the insightfulness of the idea.

incisive concept

Replaces "sharp" with "incisive", indicating a penetrating understanding.

ingenious plan

Focuses on the innovative quality of the idea, implying a well-designed approach.

smart proposition

Highlights the intelligence behind the suggestion.

well-defined concept

Emphasizes the clarity and precision of the idea.

perceptive insight

Focuses on the ability to understand things clearly.

keen understanding

Highlights the depth of comprehension behind the idea.

shrewd strategy

Indicates a clever and practical approach.

FAQs

What does "sharp idea" mean?

A "sharp idea" refers to a thought or concept that is clear, intelligent, and effective. It suggests a well-formed and insightful understanding.

What can I say instead of "sharp idea"?

You can use alternatives like "brilliant concept", "clever thought", or "astute notion" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "sharp idea" in academic writing?

While acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "incisive concept" or "well-defined concept" for academic contexts to maintain a professional tone.

How does "sharp idea" differ from "good idea"?

"Sharp idea" implies a higher degree of clarity and intelligence compared to a general "good idea". It suggests that the idea is not only beneficial but also well-thought-out and insightful.