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incisive

Incisive (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/ɪnˈsʌɪsɪv/

What does incisive mean?

Expressing difficult ideas or opinions in a clear, direct and confident manner.
"Her incisive questioning helped uncover the truth behind the scandal."

Detailed Meaning of Incisive

Incisive means penetrating, keen, or sharp. It can be used to describe something that is capable of cutting or piercing, or something that is sharp and clear in its thinking or analysis. The word incisive is often used to describe someone who is able to cut through confusion or complexity and get to the heart of an issue quickly and effectively. It can also be used to describe something that is clever, insightful, or perceptive.

Example Sentences for Incisive

1. His incisive remarks cut through the meeting's ambiguity.
2. She offered an incisive analysis of the current economic climate.
3. The journalist is known for her incisive questioning.
4. I appreciate your incisive feedback on my work.
5. The film provides an incisive look into urban life.
6. The novel had incisive commentary on modern society.

Origin and Etymology of Incisive

The word 'incisive' derives its etymology from the Latin word 'incisus,' which is the past participle of 'incidere,' meaning 'to cut into' or 'to carve.' This term was originally associated with the act of physically cutting or carving into something. Over time, it took on a metaphorical sense, referring to the skillful and precise way in which one can 'cut' or dissect complex ideas or opinions with clarity and directness. Thus, the adjective 'incisive' came to describe the ability to express challenging thoughts or viewpoints in a clear, confident, and penetrating manner, much like a sharp blade cutting through the complexities of a subject.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective incisive:

penetrating

superficial

vague

dull

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Incisive

1. Her incisive wit always enlivens our gatherings.
2. The debate showcased his incisive understanding of the topic.
3. She has an incisive mind, perfect for solving mysteries.
4. His incisive critique prompted a reevaluation of the project.
5. The article presented an incisive perspective on global politics.
6. He's an incisive thinker in a world full of noise.
7. Her incisive observations often surprise and enlighten us.
8. The panel discussion was elevated by her incisive contributions.
9. His incisive humor is sometimes mistaken for sarcasm.
10. The study provided incisive insights into human behavior.
11. She's valued in the team for her incisive judgments.
12. The poet's incisive language captures the essence of the era.
13. The director's incisive vision shaped the film's narrative.
14. With incisive precision, he dismantled the opposing argument.