Sharply Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
sharply
[หสษหrpli ]
Definitions
in a sudden or abrupt manner
In a sharp or abrupt manner; quickly and suddenly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sharply |
Use 'sharply' to describe quick, often dramatic changes or actions that are very clear and noticeable. It can also imply a sense of intensity or severity.
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| abruptly |
Use 'abruptly' when something happens suddenly and unexpectedly, often in a way that seems rude or without preparation. The word can indicate a lack of smoothness or continuity.
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| suddenly |
Use 'suddenly' for events or actions that happen quickly and without warning. Itโs a neutral term that doesn't carry a negative connotation by itself.
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Examples of usage
- The car screeched to a halt sharply.
- She turned sharply and walked away.
in a severe or harsh manner
In a severe, harsh, or critical manner.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sharply |
Used to describe something done in a quick and clear manner. Often used in speech to indicate a clear, distinct tone.
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| severely |
Indicates something done with great intensity or strictness. Often used in serious or critical situations.
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| harshly |
Describes actions or words that are unkind, severe, or cruel. Carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He criticized her sharply for her mistake.
- The teacher rebuked the student sharply.
in a keen or precise manner
In a keen, precise, or accurately defined manner.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sharply |
This word is used in a similar way to 'sharply' but is included in the list twice without any additional context needs.
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| keenly |
This word is typically used to express strong interest, enthusiasm, or awareness. It often has a more emotional or perceptive nuance.
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| precisely |
Best used when something needs to be very accurate or exact. It's suitable for technical, scientific, or detailed explanations.
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Examples of usage
- He has a sharply defined jawline.
- The photograph is sharply focused.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art and Expression
- In photography, sharp images have clear, distinct edges, making them more visually striking.
- In music, a sharp note is raised by a half step, adding intensity and excitement to a piece.
Psychology
- When someone reacts sharply, it may indicate strong emotions like surprise or anger, affecting communication.
- Sharpness in thoughts or ideas refers to clarity and incisiveness, valued in critical thinking.
Pop Culture
- Sharp dialogue in movies often captures the audienceโs attention, making scenes memorable.
- Fashion trends may be described as 'sharp' when they are sleek and sophisticated, reflecting modern styles.
Science
- In science, sharp changes in data can lead to important discoveries, indicating shifts in trends or behaviors.
- Sharpness in optics refers to the clearness of an image, crucial in fields like astronomy and photography.
Origin of 'sharply'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sharply' comes from the Old English word 'scearp', meaning 'keen or acute'.
- Throughout history, 'sharp' has been associated with cutting tools, indicating precision.
The adverb 'sharply' has its origins in the Middle English word 'sharplich' which means 'keenly or acutely'. Over time, the word evolved to represent the idea of doing something quickly, abruptly, or critically. The adverb has been used in the English language for centuries to convey a sense of precision, suddenness, or severity in various contexts.
See also: sharp, sharpen, sharpener, sharper, sharpie, sharpness, sharpshooter.