incisive

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions
  2. adjective suitable for cutting or piercing

Etymology

Late Middle English (in the sense “cutting, penetrating”), borrowed from Medieval Latin incīsīvus, from incīdō (“to cut in, cut through”) + -īvus (“-ive”, adjectival suffix). Compare Middle French incisif.

In classic literature

Synonyms

acute, discriminating, keen, knifelike, penetrating, penetrative, piercing, sharp

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