Word
pointed
Phoneticspoint·ed, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpɔɪnəd/
UK/pˈɔɪntɪd/
Definitions
01sharp-tipped
B1 · Intermediate
adj. having a sharp end or tip.
adj. ending in a sharp tip or point; having a tapered or acute physical extremity.
“The fence was topped with pointed metal bars to keep people out.”
“The Gothic cathedral is famous for its pointed arches, which allow for much taller ceilings than the older rounded style.”
02critical or direct
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. describing a remark or look that is clearly aimed at someone, often to show you are unhappy with them.
adj. expressing criticism or a specific meaning in a direct and often cutting way.
“She asked a very pointed question about why the money was missing.”
“After the presentation, the CEO made several pointed comments regarding the team's failure to meet their quarterly targets.”
03relevant
C1 · Advanced Formal
adj. having a clear connection to the subject being discussed.
adj. pertinent or relevant to the matter at hand; having a direct bearing on the current topic.
“The lawyer made a pointed observation that changed how the jury felt.”
“The professor's pointed critique of the study's methodology forced the researchers to reconsider their primary conclusions.”
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “pointed” in context.
Verb
01. deliver a pointed message
“The CEO delivered a pointed message to the department heads about the need for efficiency.”
verb + adj + noun
02. ignore the pointed criticism
“The director chose to ignore the pointed criticism from the local newspapers.”
verb + adj + noun
Adjective
03. pointed chin
“The artist drew the character with a very long, pointed chin to make him look more villainous.”
adj + noun
04. pointed question
“The journalist asked a series of pointed questions regarding the missing funds.”
adj + noun
05. pointed remark
“She made a pointed remark about his constant lateness during the staff meeting.”
adj + noun
Adverb
06. sharply pointed ears
“The mythical creature was described as having green skin and sharply pointed ears.”
adv + adj + noun
Real-World Examples
“As Lawrence pointed out, food manufacturers see government action as a threat.” “He pointed to a hollow on one end of the fossil and then turned it over to reveal a rounded bump at the other.” Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/pointed