Cutting edge

Meaning

The idiom "cutting edge" refers to something or someone that is at the forefront of innovation, technology, or knowledge in a particular field. It implies something new and forward-thinking, often pushing boundaries or challenging traditional ways of thinking. Example sentences:

• The company has been recognized for its cutting-edge technology that revolutionizes the industry.
• She is known as a leader in the field of environmental science, always at the cutting edge of new discoveries and solutions.
• As a musician, he is constantly experimenting with new sounds and styles, pushing the boundaries of what is considered mainstream music.
• The city has invested heavily in developing its infrastructure, ensuring that it stays ahead of the curve and remains a hub for innovation and progress.
• The internet has transformed the way we communicate and access information, making it possible to be at the cutting edge of global news and events from anywhere in the world.

Usage

The usage of "cutting edge" can vary depending on the context. It can refer to a specific person or thing that is currently at the forefront of innovation, or it can be used more broadly to describe something or someone that represents the latest trends or developments in a particular field. The idiom can also be used in a negative context to describe something that is outdated or no longer relevant. Example sentences:

• As a scientist, she always strives to be at the cutting edge of new discoveries and breakthroughs in her field.
• He is known for his cutting-edge approach to marketing, constantly looking for new and innovative ways to reach customers.
• The company's cutting-edge technology has allowed it to remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
• Despite being born in the 1950s, this artist continues to create work that is considered cutting edge and relevant today.
• The museum has been criticized for its lack of investment in modern art, failing to stay at the cutting edge of contemporary culture.

Roots and History

The idiom "cutting edge" originated in the late 19th century, when the industrial revolution was transforming the way people worked and lived. The phrase was used to describe new technologies and innovations that were pushing the boundaries of what was possible and changing the way people thought about the world around them. Over time, the idiom has evolved to refer not just to technology but to any field or industry that is constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable or normal. Today, "cutting edge" is a commonly used phrase in business, science, art, and many other fields to describe something new and innovative.

Synonyms in English

• State-of-the-art
• Groundbreaking
• Revolutionary
• Pioneering
• Forward-thinking

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: Avanzada/Avanzadísa (meaning advanced or innovative)
• French: Avancée (meaning advanced or innovative)
• German: Vordergrundig (meaning leading edge)
• Italian: Avanguardista (meaning avant-garde)
• Japanese: 先進的 (meaning pioneering)

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