noun
A cut-off or torn piece. In modern usage it is especially natural in compounds such as 紙切れ, or alongside numeral-counter expressions such as 一切れ.
机の下から古い紙切れが出てきた。
An old scrap of paper turned up under the desk.
noun
Used for cloth or fabric, especially a piece of cloth used for sewing or making something. Alternate spellings 布 and 裂 for this sense, but 切れ is safer for learners.
祖母は古い切れを縫い合わせて袋を作った。
My grandmother sewed old pieces of cloth together to make a bag.
noun
sharpness; cutting ability
Describes how well a blade or tool cuts; also extends naturally to crispness or sharpness in judgment, language, or performance. 切れがいい is a common pattern.
この包丁は切れがいい。
This kitchen knife cuts well.
noun
agility; crispness; sharp movement
Used for quick, precise, energetic movement, especially in sports, dance, or performance. キレがある is common in casual and media-style writing.
今日の彼女のダンスはキレがある。
Her dancing today has crisp, sharp movements.
counter
counter for pieces; counter for slices; counter for scraps
Counter for cut pieces, slices, or scraps. It commonly appears in forms such as 一切れ and 二切れ.
ケーキを二切れ食べた。
I ate two slices of cake.