started sharply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "started sharply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden or abrupt beginning of an action or event, often implying intensity or clarity. Example: "The meeting started sharply at 9 AM, with the CEO immediately addressing the key issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Giants of Fassel started sharply enough in 1997, finishing 10-5-1 10-5-1 10-5-1 Minnesota in a playoff game that slipped away with Giants defensive players butkering at each other on the fielosingtoe waning Minnesota

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In "Decoded," he quotes a couple of lines by Run: Cool chief rocker, I don't drink vodka But keep a bag of cheeba inside my locker There is aggression in the phrasing: the first line starts sharply, with a stressed syllable, instead of easing into the beat with an unstressed one.

The New Yorker

"At half-time we told the lads to make sure we start sharply after the break.

BBC

Reinforcement appeared to start sharply at this volume fraction and subsequently increased as a power law with increasing volume fraction.

Carbon

STAT1 mRNA levels grew quickly and continuously, starting sharply at around 75 min and leveling off after 200 min.

BMC Systems Biology

Toward the end the tones suddenly started rising sharply.

The New York Times - Arts

Sanford Bernstein analysts have noticed, for example, that digital camera sales started falling sharply around the time of the iPad introduction.

The New York Times

Consumer prices and private-sector wages have started falling sharply—heating costs this winter in the capital, Riga, for example, are one third cheaper.

The Economist

Pettitte started off sharply, not allowing a hit through the first three innings and throwing first-pitch strikes to 9 of the first 10 batters he faced.

The New York Times - Sports

The entire financial sector — which until recently was one of Wall Street's strongest performers — has been particularly hard hit since credit markets started tightening sharply last month.

The New York Times

World oil prices started rising sharply when demonstrators overwhelmed downtown Cairo earlier in the month because of concerns that unrest could block the Suez Canal and Sumed pipeline through which three million barrels of crude pass daily.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "started sharply" to describe a clear and immediate beginning, especially when emphasizing the directness or intensity of the action or event that follows. For example, use it when describing the initial phase of a project or a performance.

Common error

Avoid using "started sharply" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, alternatives such as "began abruptly" or "commenced decisively" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "started sharply" functions as a verbal phrase, typically modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action began. As seen in Ludwig, the phrase indicates a sudden or intense beginning.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "started sharply" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a clear and often intense beginning. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While suitable for various contexts like news and general communication, it might be less ideal for formal or scientific writing, where more precise alternatives might be preferred. Consider using related phrases such as "began abruptly" or "commenced decisively" depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. Be mindful of overuse in highly formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began abruptly

Focuses on the suddenness of the start, omitting the intensity.

commenced decisively

Emphasizes the purposeful and resolute nature of the beginning.

initiated vigorously

Highlights the energetic and forceful start of an action.

took off rapidly

Implies a quick and accelerated start.

kicked off intensely

An informal alternative focusing on the high level of activity at the start.

launched aggressively

Suggests a proactive and forceful beginning, potentially with a competitive connotation.

jumped out quickly

Describes a very sudden and fast beginning, with an connotation of excitement or surprise.

opened with a bang

An idiomatic expression emphasizing an exciting or remarkable beginning.

exploded into action

Implies a sudden and forceful start, often suggesting an immediate burst of energy or activity.

sprang to life

Focuses on the sudden activation or revitalization of something.

FAQs

What does "started sharply" mean?

"Started sharply" means that something began in a clear, direct, and often intense manner. It emphasizes the immediacy and lack of ambiguity in the beginning of an action or event.

How can I use "started sharply" in a sentence?

You can use "started sharply" to describe how something began, for example: "The discussion "began abruptly", with each participant voicing strong opinions".

What are some alternatives to "started sharply"?

Alternatives include "began abruptly", "commenced decisively", or "initiated vigorously". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "started sharply" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "started sharply" might be perceived as slightly informal for some academic contexts. Consider alternatives like "began abruptly" or "commenced decisively" for a more formal tone.