In 15 Seconds
- A blade that cuts easily and efficiently.
- Used mostly in cooking, DIY, and safety warnings.
- The opposite of a 'dull' or 'blunt' knife.
Meaning
This phrase describes a tool with a very thin, effective edge that cuts through things easily without much effort.
Key Examples
3 of 6Cooking dinner with a partner
Can you pass me a sharp knife for the tomatoes?
Can you pass me a sharp knife for the tomatoes?
Warning a guest at the table
Watch out, that's a very sharp knife!
Watch out, that's a very sharp knife!
In a professional kitchen
A chef always keeps a sharp knife nearby.
A chef always keeps a sharp knife nearby.
Cultural Background
Knives are treated with immense respect and are often given as gifts to represent cutting away bad luck.
Safety First
Always keep your fingers away from the sharp edge.
In 15 Seconds
- A blade that cuts easily and efficiently.
- Used mostly in cooking, DIY, and safety warnings.
- The opposite of a 'dull' or 'blunt' knife.
What It Means
A sharp knife is a blade that works exactly how it should. It slices through a tomato or a piece of steak like butter. When you say a knife is sharp, you mean it is dangerous but efficient. It is the opposite of a dull knife, which just squashes your food.
How To Use It
You use this phrase as a simple description. It usually comes before the noun as a standard adjective-noun pair. You can say, "I need a sharp knife for these onions." It is straightforward and literal. You can also use it as a warning. If you hand someone a blade, you might say, "Be careful, it's a sharp knife."
When To Use It
Use it in the kitchen while cooking with friends. Use it at a dinner party if the steak is tough. It is perfect for DIY projects or camping trips too. If you are opening a stubborn cardboard box, you might ask for one. It is a very practical, everyday expression.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it to describe a person's intelligence. While we say someone is sharp, we rarely call them a sharp knife. That sounds a bit strange and robotic. Also, avoid using it for things that aren't blades. A sharp mind is a compliment, but a sharp knife is just a kitchen tool.
Cultural Background
In many Western cultures, there is an old superstition about giving a sharp knife as a gift. Some believe it "cuts" the friendship. To fix this, the receiver often gives a small coin back. This turns the gift into a "purchase." Even today, some people still stick a penny to the gift box just in case!
Common Variations
You might hear people say razor-sharp. This means it is incredibly thin and dangerous. Another variation is wicked sharp, which is common in parts of the US like Boston. If someone says a knife is scary sharp, they are impressed by how easily it cuts.
Usage Notes
This is a literal, neutral phrase. There are no hidden slang meanings, making it safe to use in any environment from a home kitchen to a five-star restaurant.
Safety First
Always keep your fingers away from the sharp edge.
Examples
6Can you pass me a sharp knife for the tomatoes?
Can you pass me a sharp knife for the tomatoes?
A standard request in a kitchen setting.
Watch out, that's a very sharp knife!
Watch out, that's a very sharp knife!
Used as a safety precaution.
A chef always keeps a sharp knife nearby.
A chef always keeps a sharp knife nearby.
Refers to professional standards and tools.
Don't leave the sharp knife in the sink, it's dangerous.
Don't leave the sharp knife in the sink, it's dangerous.
Common household safety advice.
I'd give anything for a sharp knife right now.
I'd give anything for a sharp knife right now.
Expressing frustration with a dull tool.
I need a sharp knife to get through this tape.
I need a sharp knife to get through this tape.
Using the tool for a non-cooking task.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
A _____ knife is safer than a dull one.
Sharp is the correct adjective for a knife.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesA _____ knife is safer than a dull one.
Sharp is the correct adjective for a knife.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, but it is safer than a dull one because it won't slip.
Related Phrases
Dull knife
contrastA knife that doesn't cut well.
