cutting edge, at the

Idioms  

1. Also, on the cutting edge. In the forefront, in a position of greatest advantage or importance. For example, In my youth I was at the cutting edge of medical research, or Our company is on the cutting edge of gene therapy. This metaphoric phrase alludes to the sharp edge of a knife or other cutting tool. [c. 1950]

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Example Sentences

These synthetic hues, which were cutting edge at the time, enabled members of the group to depict the fleeting impression of the moment with shifting colors and luminosity.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 16, 2023

"It was cutting edge at the time and everyone knew how important it was," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 23, 2021

His research in the area of low-fat diets in the 60's and 70's was cutting edge at the time and is what most current research is based on today, a whole foods plant-based diet.

From New York Times • Mar. 9, 2018

And as weird as it sounds, that disposition were considered cutting edge at the time.

From Golf Digest • Feb. 9, 2018

As a boring mill table rotates in a counter-clockwise direction, the left-hand tool is reversed to bring the cutting edge at the rear.

From Turning and Boring A specialized treatise for machinists, students in the industrial and engineering schools, and apprentices, on turning and boring methods, etc. by Jones, Franklin D.