- 1 in a critical, rough or severe way The report was sharply critical of the police. ‘Is there a problem?’ he asked sharply.
- 2 suddenly and by a large amount Profits fell sharply following the takeover. The road fell sharply to the sea. The temperature drops sharply at night.
- 3 in a way that clearly shows the differences between two things Their experiences contrast sharply with those of other children. sharply contrasting attitudes to work
- 4 quickly and suddenly or loudly She moved sharply across the room to block his exit. He rapped sharply on the window. He drew his breath in sharply.
- 5 used to emphasize that something has a sharp point or edge sharply pointed The spring jutted sharply through the mattress.
Check pronunciation: sharply
