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How to Say "sharpness" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “sharpness” is “filo” — use 'filo' when referring to the physical sharpness of an edge, like on a knife, blade, or tool..

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filo

/FEE-loh//ˈfi.lo/

nounA2general
Use 'filo' when referring to the physical sharpness of an edge, like on a knife, blade, or tool.
A close-up illustration of the sharp, shining edge of a silver knife blade.

Examples

Ten cuidado, el cuchillo tiene mucho filo.

Be careful, the knife has a very sharp edge.

Le saqué filo a las tijeras porque no cortaban bien.

I sharpened the scissors because they weren't cutting well.

La espada perdió su filo después de la batalla.

The sword lost its edge after the battle.

Using 'tener' with 'filo'

In Spanish, we say a knife 'has edge' (tiene filo) rather than saying it 'is sharp' (es afilado), though both are possible. 'Tiene filo' is the most natural way to describe it in a kitchen.

The preposition 'al'

When using 'filo' to mean the 'brink' of time, always use 'al filo de' (at the edge of). Example: 'Al filo de la medianoche' (Right at/around midnight).

Filo vs. Afilado

Mistake: “El cuchillo está filo.”

Correction: El cuchillo tiene filo o está afilado.

ácido

nounB1figurative
Use 'ácido' figuratively to describe a sharp, biting, or sarcastic tone in speech or writing.

Examples

Su comentario tuvo un tono ácido que hirió a todos.

His comment had an acidic tone that hurt everyone.

Confusing Physical vs. Figurative Sharpness

Learners often mistakenly use 'ácido' for physical sharpness or 'filo' for a sharp tone. Remember that 'filo' is concrete (an edge), while 'ácido' is abstract (a biting remark or mood).

Related Translations

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