Translation guide
The adverb 'sharply' describes an action done in a sudden, intense, or clearly defined manner. It can refer to physical sharpness, sudden changes, clear distinctions, harsh tones, or keen perception. This guide organizes the most common uses for English-speaking learners.
気温が急に下がった。
The temperature dropped sharply.
彼は厳しく言った。
He spoke sharply.
Describing a quick, abrupt, and often strong action or change.
Common adverb for sudden, unexpected changes or actions. Neutral and widely used.
気温が急に下がった。
The temperature dropped sharply.
彼は急に立ち上がった。
He stood up sharply.
Emphasizes a rapid, drastic change, often used for economic or physical phenomena.
株価が急激に下落した。
Stock prices fell sharply.
Mimetic word for a forceful, sudden movement or change. Often used in casual speech.
彼はぐっとハンドルを切った。
He turned the steering wheel sharply.
Emphasizing a clear contrast, outline, or definition.
Adverb for clarity, distinctness, or unambiguous statements. Very common.
彼の意見ははっきりと違っていた。
His opinion differed sharply.
山の輪郭がはっきり見える。
The outline of the mountain is sharply visible.
Often used for visual clarity, like a clear silhouette or distinct shape.
Formal term for vivid, sharp clarity, often used for images, memories, or contrasts.
その記憶は鮮明に残っている。
The memory remains sharply.
Speaking or reacting in a severe, cutting manner.
Adverb from 厳しい (strict, severe). Used for criticism, scolding, or strict judgment.
彼は部下を厳しく叱った。
He sharply scolded his subordinate.
先生は生徒の答えを厳しく批判した。
The teacher sharply criticized the student's answer.
Literally 'sharply' (as a blade), metaphorically for piercing words or looks.
彼女は鋭く言い返した。
She retorted sharply.
Means 'bitingly, acrimoniously'. Stronger and more literary.
評論家はその作品を辛辣に批判した。
The critic sharply criticized the work.
Physical sharpness, cutting or piercing ability.
Adverb from 鋭い (sharp). Describes physical sharpness of blades, points, or senses.
Loanword from English 'sharp'. Often used in fashion, design, or music for a crisp, sharp quality.
彼はシャープなスーツを着ている。
He is wearing a sharply tailored suit.
Showing quick and penetrating insight or observation.
Also used for mental sharpness, keen observation, or insight.
彼は問題点を鋭く指摘した。
He sharply pointed out the problem.
Means 'accurately, precisely'. Used when someone hits the mark with a sharp comment or analysis.
彼女は状況を的確に判断した。
She judged the situation sharply.
急に is the most common word for 'suddenly' and can be used in everyday speech. 急激に emphasizes a rapid, drastic change and is more common in written or formal contexts, such as economic reports.
急に雨が降り出した。
It suddenly started raining.
需要が急激に増加した。
Demand increased sharply.
While シャープに exists as a loanword, it is not a direct replacement for all uses of 'sharply'. It is mainly used in specific contexts like music, design, or fashion. For most meanings, use native Japanese adverbs like 急に, はっきり, or 鋭く.
月がくっきりと見える。
The moon is sharply visible.