Trenchant Definition & Meaning

trenchant
adjective
  1. having keenness and forcefulness and penetration in thought, expression, or intellect; "searching insights"; "trenchant criticism"
  2. characterized by or full of force and vigor; "a hard-hitting expose"; "a trenchant argument"
  3. clearly or sharply defined to the mind; "clear-cut evidence of tampering"; "Claudius was the first to invade Britain with distinct...intentions of conquest"; "trenchant distinctions between right and wrong"

Usage tips for "trenchant"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "trenchant" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for trenchant to find words that pair well.

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