clear-cut

Also clear cut,

[kleer-kuht, kleer-kuht]

adjective

1. formed with or having clearly defined outlines.

   a face with clear-cut features.

   Synonyms: definite, positive, precise, crisp, chiseled

2. unambiguously clear; completely evident; definite.

   His sale of secrets was a clear-cut example of treachery.

3. of or relating to a section of forest where all trees have been cut down for harvesting.

noun

1. a section of forest where all trees have been cut down for harvesting.

verb (used with object)

clear-cut, clear-cutting 

1. to fell all the trees in (a section of forest) for harvesting.

clear-cut

adjective

1. definite; not vague

   a clear-cut proposal

2. clearly outlined

verb

1. (tr) another term for clear-fell

Other Word Forms

• clear-cutness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clear-cut¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

Discussing immigration-related contracts with industry players would represent a “clear-cut violation” of federal ethics regulations, said Don Fox, the former general counsel for the Office of Government Ethics, an independent agency in the executive branch.

From Salon

Many will argue with their conclusions, but their impeccable research and clear-cut cause-and-effect scenarios might at least spur actionable change.

From Los Angeles Times

Ideally, their production should ease the burden on a relief corps that ranked 21st in the majors in ERA during the regular season, and has no clear-cut hierarchy for its most trusted arms.

From Los Angeles Times

There are no clear-cut villains and heroes here; every character bears cavernous flaws, each playing a role in Ingelsby’s construction of the main trespass.

From Salon

Former Scotland captain Scott Brown: "That's what Steve Clarke will have wanted. The players had to dig deep - everyone gave a solid performance. Denmark had a lot of possession but hardly any clear-cut chances."

From BBC

Related Words

• categorical 
• definitive 
• explicit 
• obvious 
• precise 
• pronounced 
• specific 
• straightforward 
• unambiguous 
• unequivocal 
• well-defined