crossword clue sharp – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "sharp," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers for various word lengths, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue sharp" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KEEN: Having a sharp cutting edge or point; highly developed (e.g., keen eyesight).
5 Letters
ACUTE: Having a sharp point; shrewd; severe (e.g., acute pain).
CRISP: Firm, dry, and brittle; clear and precise (e.g., crisp image or air).
6 Letters
ASTUTE: Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage; shrewd.
BITING: (Of a remark or wit) incisive and critical; (of wind or cold) intensely cold.
7 Letters
POINTED: Having a sharpened or tapered tip or end; (of a remark or look) direct and explicit, often implying criticism.
8 Letters
PIERCING: (Of a sound) extremely loud and high-pitched; (of a gaze or insight) appearing to penetrate deeply.
INCISIVE: (Of a person or mental process) intelligently analytical and clear-thinking; sharp.
More About "crossword clue sharp"
"Sharp" is a remarkably versatile word in the English language, making it a favorite (and sometimes challenging) clue for crossword constructors. Its meanings range from the literal to the figurative, encompassing senses of intellect, physical attributes, taste, sound, and even abruptness. Understanding these nuances is key to cracking puzzles where "sharp" appears.
When you encounter "sharp" in a crossword, consider its many facets. Is it referring to a keen mind, suggesting answers like KEEN, ACUTE, ASTUTE, or SHREWD? Or perhaps a physical edge, leading to words like POINTED or EDGY? The context of surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can often provide critical hints to narrow down the possibilities and pinpoint the exact meaning intended by the clue writer.
Don't forget the sensory associations: a "sharp" taste (TANGY, ACIDIC, PUNGENT), a "sharp" sound (PIERCING), or a "sharp" turn (ABRUPT). Musicians will also recognize "sharp" as a musical notation, indicating a note raised by a semitone. By keeping these diverse interpretations in mind, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any "sharp" clue thrown your way.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of boxes. This is your primary filter. A 4-letter "sharp" immediately rules out a 7-letter answer like POINTED.
- Consider Surrounding Clues: Letters from intersecting words are invaluable. They can confirm a suspicion or eliminate incorrect possibilities very quickly.
- Think Synonymously and Figuratively: Crossword clues often use synonyms or figurative meanings. For "sharp," think of its various applications: intellect, physical edge, taste, sound, abruptness, or even musical terms.
- Use a Crossword Dictionary (like this one!): When truly stumped, using a resource that lists possible answers by length and meaning can be your best friend. Look up not just the clue, but also common related words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'sharp' in crossword puzzles?
The clue 'sharp' is highly versatile in crosswords, often referring to a keen intellect (e.g., 'astute', 'clever', 'shrewd'), a physical edge or point (e.g., 'keen', 'acute', 'pointed'), a strong taste or smell (e.g., 'tangy', 'pungent', 'acid'), a sudden change in direction (e.g., 'abrupt'), or even a musical note (#). Context is key to determining the intended meaning.
How can I determine the correct length for a 'sharp' clue in a crossword?
The length of the answer is crucial. If you have intersecting letters, use them to narrow down possibilities. For example, if 'sharp' is a 4-letter answer, 'KEEN' might fit. If it's a 5-letter answer, 'ACUTE' or 'CRISP' could be options. Always cross-reference with other clues and known letters.
Are there musical terms related to 'sharp' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, 'sharp' is a common musical term and frequently appears in crosswords. It refers to a note that is a semitone higher than the corresponding natural note. Answers could include words like 'TREBLE' (though less direct, related to high notes), or sometimes even the symbol itself if allowed by the puzzle format (though usually a word is required). The symbol for sharp is #.