cutting-edge
/ˌkʌt.ɪŋˈedʒ/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Very modern and advanced, especially in technology, science, or design. It describes something that is newer or more advanced than most others.
- They use cutting-edge medical equipment.
- The company builds cutting-edge software.
- Her research is cutting-edge.
Adinary Nuance
Use cutting-edge for something that feels clearly ahead of other things in its field. It is stronger and more specific than modern or advanced. It often suggests new technology, research, or design, not just something stylish or current.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tiên tiến
- Spanish
- de vanguardia
- Chinese
- 前沿
- Japanese
- 最先端
- Korean
- 최첨단
Etymology
The phrase comes from the idea of the very front edge of a cutting tool. In English, it became a figurative phrase for the newest and most advanced things in the late 20th century.
Common phrases
cutting-edge technologycutting-edge researchcutting-edge designcutting-edge methods
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is cutting-edge formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal and common in writing, business, and academic English.
- What is the difference between cutting-edge and modern?
- Modern means up-to-date. Cutting-edge means more advanced than most other things.
- Can I use cutting-edge for people?
- Usually, no. It is mainly used for things like technology, ideas, and research.
- Is cutting-edge a common phrase in IELTS writing?
- Yes. It works well when describing technology, science, or progress.