sharpen
verb (used with or without object)
have sharpened
-
present perfectof sharpen.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Just as the on-court Spurs improved through the season before blitzing through the first two rounds of the playoffs, the Jackals have sharpened their edge game after game.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 27, 2026
Budget constraints have sharpened the fight, since expanding support for one group often requires cuts elsewhere.
From Barron's ● May 1, 2026
Tougher economic conditions have sharpened her worries about paying her bills when the campaign cycle is done.
From MarketWatch ● Apr. 3, 2026
He’s more halting when he talks about the end of his friend’s life and about what he sees as the lack of a serious artistic challenge that might have sharpened Elvis’ focus.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 16, 2025
He must have sharpened his pencil fifteen times during that test.
From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx
