Trenchant: meaning, definitions and examples
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trenchant
[ ˈtrɛnʧənt ]
sharp criticism
The word 'trenchant' refers to something that is sharp or incisive, particularly in relation to arguments or critiques. It can describe a remark or analysis that is clear, effective, and penetrating. Often used to characterize a style of writing that is forceful and direct, 'trenchant' implies that the content is not only cutting but also insightful, making it a powerful tool in both rhetoric and analysis.
Synonyms
cutting, incisive, keen, piercing, sharply effective.
Examples of usage
- Her trenchant observations forced us to rethink our strategy.
- The critic wrote a trenchant review of the play.
- His trenchant remarks caught everyone off guard.
- She had a trenchant wit that made her a popular speaker.
Translations
Translations of the word "trenchant" in other languages:
🇵🇹 agudo
- incisivo
- penetrante
🇮🇳 तीखा
- चुभने वाला
- स्पष्ट
🇩🇪 scharf
- schneidend
- treffend
🇮🇩 tajam
- menusuk
- tepat
🇺🇦 гострий
- пронизливий
- чіткий
🇵🇱 ostry
- przenikliwy
- trafny
🇯🇵 鋭い
- 刺激的な
- 明確な
🇫🇷 tranchant
- incisif
- clair
🇪🇸 agudo
- incisivo
- claro
🇹🇷 keskin
- çarpıcı
- net
🇰🇷 날카로운
- 날카롭게 찌르는
- 명확한
🇸🇦 حاد
- بارز
- واضح
🇨🇿 ostře
- pronikavě
- jasně
🇸🇰 ostrý
- prenikavý
- jasný
🇨🇳 锋利的
- 尖锐的
- 明确的
🇸🇮 ostro
- prodorno
- jasno
🇮🇸 skörp
- skarpt
- skýrt
🇰🇿 өткір
- шапшаң
- анық
🇬🇪 მჭვინვალე
- მკვეთრი
- ნათელი
🇦🇿 kəskin
- dəqiq
- aydın
🇲🇽 agudo
- incisivo
- claro
Etymology
The word 'trenchant' originates from the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French word 'trenchier,' which means 'to cut.' The primary meaning of trenchant relates to sharpness, both literal and metaphorical. Its usage evolved over time, particularly to describe cutting remarks or critiques. By the 17th century, the term was established in the English lexicon to refer to incisive and sharp analyses, particularly in literature and critical discourse. 'Trenchant' has since become a common descriptor for comments or writings that are direct and impactful, providing clarity and insight. The word is often employed in academic and literary circles, underscoring its importance in discussions of effective communication.