crossword clue sharp – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "sharp", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you need a short or long answer, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "crossword clue sharp" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KEEN: Refers to something having a very fine or sharp cutting edge; also, highly developed or sensitive. Often used for intellect or senses, or for being eager.
EDGY: Tense, nervous, or irritable. Also, innovatively or daringly experimental, suggesting a cutting-edge quality.
5 Letters
ACUTE: Having a sharp end or point; also, sudden and severe (as in pain) or highly perceptive (as in mind).
CRISP: Firm, dry, and brittle; also, sharply clear and precise. Can refer to a sharp sound or texture.
6 Letters
SHREWD: Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute. Implies cleverness and practical wisdom, often in business or negotiation.
STINGY: Often used as a synonym for 'sharp' when referring to a person's character, meaning harsh or biting in a critical way, or unwilling to give or spend.
7 Letters
POINTED: Having a sharpened or tapered tip or end. Can also mean direct and forceful, as in a 'pointed remark'.
ACERBIC: (Especially of a comment or style of speaking) sharp and forthright. Implies a critical or sarcastic tone.
8 Letters
INCISIVE: (Of a person or mental process) intelligently analytical and clear-thinking; (of an account) accurate and sharply focused. Suggests cutting through complexity.
More About "crossword clue sharp"
The clue "sharp" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, making it both challenging and interesting. Its multiple meanings can refer to physical attributes, mental acuity, sensory experiences, or even musical terms. This broad spectrum of interpretations means that solvers must pay close attention to the context provided by other clues and already-filled letters.
Common themes for "sharp" include intelligence (e.g., a sharp mind, keen intellect), physical edges (a sharp knife, pointed object), suddenness (a sharp turn, sharp increase), or even a distinct taste (sharp cheese). In a musical context, 'sharp' denotes a note raised by a semitone. Understanding these nuances is crucial for pinpointing the exact answer the puzzle constructor intends.
When you encounter "sharp" in a crossword, consider the overall theme of the puzzle or any adjacent clues that might provide a hint towards a specific domain, like music, cooking, or personality traits. This layered meaning is what makes "sharp" a classic and frequently used crossword clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most valuable guide. If the grid only allows for a 4-letter word, you can immediately rule out longer possibilities like INCISIVE or POINTED.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For a clue like "sharp," always think beyond the first meaning that comes to mind. Brainstorm synonyms for its various definitions (e.g., intelligent, cutting, sudden, acidic, musical).
- Look for Contextual Clues: Does the puzzle have a theme? Are there other clues related to music, cooking, or personality? These can often narrow down which 'sharp' meaning is relevant.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to test potential answers. If 'K' is the first letter, then KEEN becomes a strong candidate.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common meanings of 'sharp' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'sharp' commonly refers to meanings such as 'keen' (e.g., a sharp mind, sharp blade), 'acute' (sharp pain, acute angle), 'shrewd' (sharp business sense), or 'pointed' (a sharp object, a pointed comment). It can also relate to suddenness, crispness, or a specific taste.
How can I distinguish between similar 'sharp' answers like KEEN and ACUTE?
Context is key! 'KEEN' often implies strong sensory perception (keen eyesight, keen hearing) or enthusiasm (keen interest), while 'ACUTE' suggests intensity (acute pain), precise angles, or a highly developed intellect. Pay attention to surrounding words in the clue for subtle hints.
Does 'sharp' ever relate to music in crosswords?
Yes, absolutely! In music, a 'sharp' (often indicated by a symbol resembling a hashtag: #) raises the pitch of a note by a semitone. If the clue hints at a musical context, this meaning is very likely.