trenchant
/ˈtren.tʃənt/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
A trenchant remark, criticism, or analysis is strong, clear, and sharply effective. It often shows keen insight and does not avoid difficult truths.
- Her trenchant comments changed the whole debate.
- He wrote a trenchant critique of the policy.
- The article gives a trenchant view of urban life.
Adinary Nuance
Trenchant is stronger and sharper than clear or direct. It often suggests criticism, analysis, or speech that cuts through confusion and gets to the point. It is more formal and literary than blunt or straightforward.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- sắc bén
- Spanish
- agudo
- Chinese
- 犀利
- Japanese
- 鋭い
- Korean
- 날카로운
Etymology
Trenchant comes from French, from a word meaning 'cutting'. It entered English in the Middle Ages and later took on the sense of sharp, forceful speech or writing.
Common phrases
trenchant criticisma trenchant remarktrenchant analysistrenchant wit
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is trenchant a positive word?
- Usually yes, but it can sound critical. It often praises a sharp mind or strong writing.
- What is the difference between trenchant and blunt?
- Trenchant is sharp and effective, especially in speech or writing. Blunt is more direct and can sound rude or unpolished.
- Is trenchant used in formal writing?
- Yes. It is common in essays, journalism, and academic writing.
- Can I use trenchant for people?
- Yes, but it more often describes their remarks, criticism, or style of thinking.