cutting edge

Register · Neutral Neutral — appropriate in most situations, both spoken and written, without sounding too casual or too stiff. CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

the most advanced stage of development; state-of-the-art

Why this phrase?

From the leading edge of a blade — the part that does the cutting.

Example

“Their compiler is at the cutting edge of static analysis.”

Dictionary details

Component words

cutting edge

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

bleeding edge Informal · CEFR C1

the very newest and most experimental technology, so new it may be unstable or unreliable

double-edged sword Neutral · CEFR C1

something that has both great benefits and serious risks

state of the art Neutral · CEFR B2

using the most advanced and modern techniques or technology

break new ground Neutral · CEFR B2

to do something that has never been done before; to pioneer

break the mould Neutral · CEFR B2

to do something new and different that sets a new standard

flavor of the month Informal · CEFR B2

a person, framework, or thing that is fashionable for a very short time

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

markdown