state-of-the-art

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'state-of-the-art' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a thing or object that is the most advanced in terms of technology, materials or design. For example, "The new smartphone from Apple is a state-of-the-art device with exceptional features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

State-of-the-art salad bowls.

The New Yorker

Audio quality wasn't state-of-the-art.

The New York Times - Tech

It was state-of-the-art stuff.

The Guardian

We've got state-of-the-art facilities.

The New York Times - Sports

It featured state-of-the-art everything, even state-of-the-art art.

The Guardian

A victory of the state of the art over the state-of-the-art, you might say.

The Guardian - Books

"In the nineties, it was state-of-the-art.

The New Yorker

The F.D.I.C. operates state-of-the-art bank resolution processes.

The New York Times

The second common trait is state-of-the-art components.

The New York Times - Tech

State-of-the-art technology should be incorporated.

The New York Times

Many have state-of-the-art screens and sound systems.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a historical object or technology, use "state-of-the-art for its time" to acknowledge its past prominence while maintaining accuracy.

Common error

Avoid using "state-of-the-art" excessively, as it can sound cliché. Replace it with more specific descriptions of the advanced features or benefits to strengthen your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state-of-the-art" functions primarily as an adjective used to describe something that is currently the most advanced and sophisticated, especially in technology or design. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase correctly conveys that something incorporates the latest and best technology.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

27%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "state-of-the-art" is a versatile phrase functioning as an adjective to denote the highest level of current technology or design, as determined by Ludwig AI. Predominantly appearing in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, it serves to emphasize modernity and superiority. While grammatically sound and frequently used, writers should avoid overuse to prevent sounding clichéd. Alternatives such as "cutting-edge" or "leading-edge" can provide similar emphasis. Therefore, understanding its function, purpose, and register ensures accurate and impactful use in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cutting-edge

Focuses on the newest and most advanced features, highlighting its innovative aspect.

leading-edge

Similar to cutting-edge, but emphasizes its position at the forefront of development.

advanced

A more general term indicating a high level of development or sophistication.

highly developed

Highlights the extent of the progress and sophistication.

innovative

Focuses on the novelty and creativity of the technology or design.

groundbreaking

Emphasizes its revolutionary impact and departure from previous standards.

high-tech

Specifically refers to advanced technology, often implying electronic or digital components.

ultra-modern

Stresses its contemporary design and alignment with current trends.

top-of-the-line

Emphasizes its premium quality and position as the best available.

the latest technology

Directly states that it incorporates the most recent technological advancements.

FAQs

How can I use "state-of-the-art" in a sentence?

You can use "state-of-the-art" to describe something that is the most advanced or modern. For example, "The new research facility is equipped with "cutting-edge" technology".

What are some alternatives to "state-of-the-art"?

Alternatives include "cutting-edge", "leading-edge", or "highly advanced", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "state-of-the-art" to describe something from the past?

While "state-of-the-art" generally refers to current technology, you can say something was "state-of-the-art for its time" to indicate it was the most advanced at a particular point in history.

What is the difference between "state-of-the-art" and "modern"?

"State-of-the-art" implies the absolute highest level of current technology, while "modern" simply means relating to the present or recent times. Something can be modern without being "the most advanced".