Clear-cut

Describing a situation, argument, or decision that is unambiguous, readily understood, and free from doubt or confusion. It can also refer to an action or procedure carried out thoroughly and methodically, or to the logging of all trees in an area. The term emphasizes a lack of ambiguity, allowing for straightforward analysis or execution. Essentially, 'clear-cut' means easy to understand, simple, and definitive, indicating a situation with distinct boundaries or characteristics. It implies precision, certainty, and a lack of vagueness in the context where it is used.

Clear-cut meaning with examples

• The evidence presented by the prosecution was clear-cut, leaving the jury with no doubt about the defendant's guilt. The witness testimony and forensic reports offered a precise and compelling case. The verdict would be almost guaranteed to be an easy decision for the jury.
• The company's financial performance exhibited a clear-cut trend of steady growth. Quarterly reports showed consistently increasing revenue and profits. The financial health of the company, the trend of growth that was observed over the years was quite clear.
• The instructions for assembling the furniture were clear-cut and easy to follow, minimizing any confusion. Diagrams accompanied each step of the instructions and everything was organized and easily understood. This was not the usual confusing instructions you might often see.
• The environmental impact assessment provided a clear-cut understanding of the potential consequences of the proposed development. The study thoroughly and methodically presented the different impacts of the development and explained them very well.