sharply

Meaning 1: Degree

To a great degree or extent; significantly.

Examples

• The company's profits have increased sharply this quarter.
• Public opinion has shifted sharply against the new policy.

Meaning 2: Physical Manner

In a way that is sudden, steep, or abrupt.

Examples

• The road turned sharply to the left.
• He stopped sharply when he heard the noise.

Meaning 3: Intense or Severe

In a way that is intense, severe, or extreme.

Examples

• The criticism was sharply worded.
• He felt a sharply defined pain in his side.

Pronunciation: /ˈʃɑːrpli/

How to Use sharply

sharply increase (collocation)

To increase by a large amount or degree. — "The cost of housing has sharply increased in the last decade."

sharply decrease (collocation)

To decrease by a large amount or degree. — "The company's profits sharply decreased due to the economic downturn."

sharply divided (collocation)

Having very different opinions or views. — "The country's population is sharply divided on the issue of immigration."

sharply worded (collocation)

Expressed in a very direct, critical, or severe way. — "The politician issued a sharply worded statement condemning the violence."

Synonyms of sharply

Words with a similar meaning to sharply:

• significantly
• considerably
• dramatically
• markedly

Antonyms of sharply

Words with the opposite meaning to sharply:

• slightly
• gradually
• steadily