Synonyms for
Acute
Definition
Acute means having a sharp or severe effect or being highly perceptive or sensitive.
Synonyms & similar words
penetrative
acuate
knifelike
penetrating
incisive
discriminating
sharp
intense
acuteaccent
piercing
obtuse
keen
ague
chronic
needlelike
sharp
keen
intense
severe
penetrating
piercing
profound
astute
perceptive
discerning
shrewd
insightful
observant
canny
clever
smart
ingenious
brilliant
acute-angle
acute-angled
Synonyms by register
Antonyms
Common collocations
- acute angle
- acute pain
- acute shortage
- acute illness
- acute observation
- acute accent
- acute hearing
- acute crisis
Word family
Usage note
Often used to describe pain, illness, angles, or intelligence. 'Acute' in the context of illness refers to a sudden onset and short duration, contrasting with 'chronic'.
Example sentences
- She has an acute sense of smell, and can detect even the slightest odors.
- The patient's condition was acute, and he needed to be rushed to the hospital.
- The acute pain in my head made it difficult to concentrate.
- The angle of the roof was acute, making it difficult to fit in the rafters.
- The team's acute attention to detail helped them win the championship.
Quotes
The acute mountain sickness affects mountaineers who climb high altitudes. - Anonymous
Good sense is a part of genius. You can't have one without the other. - Anonymous
Acute senses are better than brute strength. - Anonymous