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

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

McConkey rewrote franchise rookie records last year with 82 receptions and 1,149 yards for a team devoid of a clear-cut No. 1.

From Los Angeles Times

Like other spots on offense, tight end appears headed for a committee approach, with no clear-cut No. 1.

From Los Angeles Times

Once again, the claims of both the prosecution and defence are not clear-cut.

From BBC

Related Words

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