sharp laugh

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sharp laugh" is correct and usable in written English.
The phrase can be used to describe the sound of an unexpected, amused, abrupt laugh. For example, "The audience emitted a sharp laugh at the comedian's joke."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

He followed this with a sharp laugh of self-surprise.

The New Yorker

With a sharp laugh of triumph, not even waiting for Toczko to sit down, I stepped forward and sang out, "L-Y-R-E!

The New Yorker

"Well, he sounds like he was fun on a Saturday night," says McDermid, who gives a short, sharp laugh and wanders off.

The Guardian

Mr. Abu-Namous, who often punctuated his sentences with a sharp laugh, stressed that he was speaking personally and was not a politician.

The New York Times

"You can't get more homey than that," Litman declares with a sharp laugh, sitting in the townhouse near New Jersey and Rhode Island avenues NW that he rents from his cousin.

The Washington Post

Vikander, sitting next to him, let loose a sharp laugh.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

For every melancholy moment, though, there's a super-sharp laugh.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"What's important isn't a woman's life here, but a nice car," she said with a blade-sharp laugh.

The New York Times

He drew his finger across his throat and laughed a sharp, bitter laugh when asked what would happen if he went home.

The New York Times

Emer turned from the window, gave a sharp little laugh.

The New Yorker

"Now that the election is over, no, I don't believe it," he said with a sharp, dark laugh.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sharp laugh" to vividly describe a sudden, often cynical or slightly unsettling expression of amusement. It adds a layer of character detail, implying a quick, perhaps sardonic, reaction.

Common error

Avoid using "sharp laugh" when describing genuine, hearty laughter. The adjective "sharp" implies a pointed or cutting quality, making it unsuitable for describing joyful or innocent amusement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharp laugh" functions as a descriptive element, modifying the noun "laugh" to specify its quality. The adjective "sharp" indicates a sudden, cutting, or cynical quality to the laughter. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sharp laugh" serves as a vivid descriptor, denoting a sudden, often cynical form of laughter. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable, finding its primary context in news and media. While uncommon, it effectively conveys a pointed or cutting quality to the expression of amusement. Related phrases offer similar nuances, like "sudden laugh" or "bitter laugh", allowing for subtle variations in meaning. Understanding the connotation is key, as "sharp laugh" is best reserved for describing reactions tinged with cynicism or discomfort, rather than genuine joy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sudden laugh

Focuses on the unexpected nature of the laugh.

abrupt laugh

Emphasizes the sudden and curt nature of the laugh.

quick laugh

Describes the brevity and speed of the laugh.

brief laugh

Similar to 'quick laugh', denoting a short-lived expression of amusement.

bitter laugh

Highlights the emotion underlying the laugh, suggesting it's laced with resentment or sadness.

dry laugh

Conveys a lack of genuine amusement in the laugh.

derisive laugh

Indicates that the laugh is mocking or scornful.

nervous laugh

Suggests the laugh is a reaction to anxiety or unease.

forced laugh

Implies the laugh is insincere or contrived.

cackling laugh

Refers to a loud, harsh laugh, often associated with wickedness or madness.

FAQs

How can I use "sharp laugh" in a sentence?

You can use "sharp laugh" to describe a sudden, often cynical or slightly unsettling expression of amusement. For example: "He responded with a "sharp laugh" after hearing the absurd proposal."

What is the difference between "sharp laugh" and "hearty laugh"?

"Sharp laugh" suggests a quick, almost cutting expression of amusement, possibly cynical or sarcastic. A "hearty laugh" implies a genuine, full-bodied, and joyful expression of amusement.

What can I say instead of "sharp laugh"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "sudden laugh", "abrupt laugh", or "bitter laugh" to convey similar but slightly different nuances.

Is "sharp laugh" formal or informal language?

"Sharp laugh" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall style and purpose of the writing.