T-learning # Idiom
Speak Like a Native

as sharp as a needle

Choose the correct definition a, b or c.

a) slow-witted

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

b) hot-tempered

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

c) quick-thinking

Well done ! That’s the right answer.

If someone is as sharp as a needle, they are very alert, quick-thinking, intelligent, very smart. A North American variant is sharp as a tack.

French translation

alerte, rapide, affûté, malin comme un renard

How NOT to translate : *aussi pointu qu’une aiguille
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Examples in context

‘Centenarian Tonbridge Resident Says Secret to a Long Life is Being Naughty

Vera Greening, a resident at Rosewell House Extra Care Housing Scheme in Tonbridge, celebrated her 100th birthday yesterday, on Monday 3rd August.

Despite the big move and her advancing years, Vera is still strong willed, loves her food and has a great sense of humour. She loves to read and Tonbridge library regularly drop in books for her. She may be 100 but she is still as sharp as a needle and can clearly recall memories of her early days, including taking her young daughters to watch the Queen’s coronation in the early fifties.

Rapport Housing & Care, 4 August 2020

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Everyday usage

Martin is as sharp as a needle, so he’ll find a solution to this problem.

I really enjoyed Susan’s presentation. She really is as sharp as a needle.

EnglishTonic and Claramedia, 7 May 2021


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