- 1in a critical, rough, or severe way The report was sharply critical of the police. “Is there a problem?” he asked sharply.
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- 2suddenly and by a large amount Profits fell sharply following the takeover. The road fell sharply to the sea.
- 3in a way that clearly shows the differences between two things Their experiences contrast sharply with those of other children. sharply contrasting attitudes to work
- 4quickly and suddenly, or loudly She moved sharply across the room to block his exit. He rapped sharply on the window. He drew his breath in sharply.
- 5used to emphasize that something has a sharp point or edge sharply pointed The spring jutted sharply through the mattress.
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