Sharpen: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used when talking about making a tool's edge or a skill sharper and more precise. It can also describe increasing the acuity of senses like vision or hearing.

• He sharpened his knife before cutting the vegetables.
• The workshop is designed to sharpen your coding skills.
• Listening to a complex piece of music helps to sharpen your hearing.

This is typically used when referring to refining skills or abilities over time through practice and effort. It can also be used in the context of sharpening tools.

• She honed her public speaking skills by attending workshops.
• Artists spend years honing their craft.
• The chef honed his knives meticulously.

A general term for making something better. It can be used in virtually any context where enhancement or development is involved.

• They hired a coach to improve their performance.
• Studying regularly will improve your grades.
• She wants to improve her health by exercising more.

Often used to describe making something better or more attractive, typically by adding extra features or qualities. Common in marketing, beauty, and technology contexts.

• They used spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• The new software update enhances security features.
• Yoga can enhance your flexibility.

This term is commonly used when talking about making things physically or intellectually sharper, clearer, or more focused.

• I need to sharpen my pencil before taking notes.
• The speaker's points helped to sharpen the debate.

This is often used when explaining or making something easier to understand, especially in communication.

• Can you clarify the instructions for this assignment?
• Her explanation helped to clarify the complex concept.

Used when talking about making something stronger or more extreme, usually emotions, actions, or conditions. It can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• The company plans to intensify its marketing efforts to boost sales.
• The conflict between the two countries began to intensify.

Typically used when talking about improving the quality, value, or extent of something.

• We should enhance the features of our product to attract more customers.
• The new software enhancements have made the system faster and more reliable.

Used when you want to make the tip of a writing instrument, like a pencil, pointed or keen. It can also be used metaphorically to describe improving skills or abilities.

• I need to sharpen my pencil before the exam
• She sharpened her negotiation skills before the big meeting

Refers specifically to the device used to make a pencil's tip sharp. This term is commonly used in educational or office settings.

• My pencil sharpener broke, so I can't sharpen my pencils
• The new pencil sharpener in the classroom works much better

Very rarely used. It could describe someone who emphasizes certain ideas or points during a discussion, but this usage is informal and not widely recognized.

• He is quite the point maker during our meetings, always emphasizing what needs to be done