Sharp Idioms (With Meaning and Examples)

Idioms are fun phrases that don’t mean what they say literally. They make language interesting and help us express feelings in creative ways.

Sharp Idioms

Here are 20 sharp idioms in English with meaning and example sentences for each.

On point

Meaning: Exactly right or appropriate.

Example: Her comments were on point during the meeting.

Cutting edge

Meaning: Highly advanced; innovative.

Example: They use cutting edge technology in their new car.

Razor-sharp

Meaning: Very clear and able to think quickly.

Example: He gave a razor-sharp answer to the complex question.

Sharp as a tack

Meaning: Very intelligent or perceptive.

Example: She’s as sharp as a tack when it comes to math.

Sharpen the saw

Meaning: Continuously improving oneself.

Example: He spends weekends sharpening the saw by studying.

Make the cut

Meaning: Succeed in being selected or approved.

Example: Only the best ideas will make the cut for our project.

On the cutting edge

Meaning: At the forefront of technology or development.

Example: Our lab is on the cutting edge of cancer research.

Cut to the chase

Meaning: Get to the point without wasting time.

Example: Let’s cut to the chase: are you in or out?

A cut above

Meaning: Superior to others.

Example: This restaurant is a cut above the rest in town.

Cut from the same cloth

Meaning: Very similar in characteristics.

Example: They are cut from the same cloth, both very ambitious.

Look sharp

Meaning: To be well-dressed or appear stylish.

Example: He always looks sharp for business meetings.

Cut corners

Meaning: To do something poorly to save time or money.

Example: They cut corners while building the deck.

Sharp-eyed

Meaning: Having keen vision or acute observation.

Example: The sharp-eyed editor caught all the typos.

Take the edge off

Meaning: Reduce the intensity of something.

Example: A cup of tea can take the edge off a stressful day.

Edge out

Meaning: To win or succeed by a small margin.

Example: She managed to edge out the competition in the race.

On a knife-edge

Meaning: In a situation of acute tension.

Example: The negotiations are on a knife-edge right now.

Live on the edge

Meaning: To live dangerously.

Example: He loves to live on the edge, always seeking adventure.

The sharpest tool in the shed

Meaning: Not the brightest or most intelligent.

Example: He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed but he’s kind.

Cutting remark

Meaning: A comment that is intended to hurt.

Example: She made a cutting remark about his work.

Edge of your seat

Meaning: Very exciting and causing one to be very interested.

Example: This thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat.

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