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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


incisive

adjective

Definition: 1. bright, astute, and quick to understand, analyze or act; 2. direct, articulate, and clear in communication; 3. cutting and sharp

Synonyms: sharp, clear, astute, perceptive, acute, trenchant, penetrating, direct, precise, cutting, biting

Antonyms: vague, naïve, soft, indirect

Tips: Incisive can mean sharp in perception or communication, or literally, as in "incisive teeth." in combining the two definitions of "mentally sharp" with "articulate," incisive describes having or demonstrating the ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions--you are mentally sharp and you can articulate clearly the fine points on a subject. Incisive is a very powerful compliment when used in this context. It can also refer to sharp or cutting words--communication that is direct and potentially harsh.

Usage Examples:

Her incisive answers to the essay test impressed her teachers. (sharp, astute)

An incisive mind is a necessary asset in your fast-paced job. (astute, perceptive, sharp)

His incisive comments showed that he had strong command of the issues at hand. (sharp, astute, articulate)

She wrote an incisive book on the political bias of the media. (sharp, perceptive)


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