What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
smart
Example
She's a smart student and always gets good grades. [smart: adjective]
Example
He wore a smart suit to the job interview. [smart: adjective]
Example
This smartwatch can track your fitness and monitor your heart rate. [smart: adjective]
sharp
Example
He has a sharp mind and can solve problems quickly. [sharp: adjective]
Example
The sharp lines of the building's architecture were impressive. [sharp: adjective]
Example
Be careful not to cut yourself on the sharp edge of the knife. [sharp: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smart is more commonly used than sharp in everyday language. Smart is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while sharp is more specific and may be used less frequently.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between smart and sharp?
Both smart and sharp can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, smart may be more commonly used in casual conversation, while sharp may be more commonly used in professional or technical settings.