# incisive

/ˌɪnˈsaɪsɪv/ (US) · /ɪnsˈaɪsɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/incisive
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

describing something that is very sharp, clear, and direct. You use this to talk about a person's mind or a piece of writing that cuts through confusion to find the truth.

For teachers: characterised by sharpness, clarity, and directness of expression or thought. Often describes a person's intellect or a critical analysis that pierces through complexity.

## Examples

- She gave an incisive analysis of the problem.
- The journalist's incisive questions forced the politician to admit the truth about the scandal.
- The author's incisive observations of Victorian society reveal a deep understanding of the social pressures that constrained individual freedom during that era.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.