sharp spikes

Meanings

1. 1phraseplural

   Thin, pointed objects or parts that stick out and can prick or pierce.

   Grammar: Plural noun phrase; for one pointed thing, use "a sharp spike."

   Patterns

   • sharp spikes on something
   • a row of sharp spikes

   The cactus was covered in sharp spikes, so we kept our distance.

   A metal fence with sharp spikes ran along the top of the wall.

   The dog yelped after stepping on the sharp spikes of a thorn bush.

2. 2phrasepluraltechnical

   Sudden, brief increases that are shown as narrow, high points on a graph.

   Grammar: Used mainly in technical or news writing about measurements and charts.

   Patterns

   • sharp spikes in something
   • show sharp spikes

   The graph showed sharp spikes in electricity use during cold evenings.

   Health officials noticed sharp spikes in flu cases every winter.

   Sales figures had sharp spikes right before the holidays.

Common combinations

covered in sharp spikes

The caterpillar was covered in sharp spikes for protection.

a row of sharp spikes

A row of sharp spikes lined the top of the gate.

sharp spikes on a graph

Sharp spikes on the graph marked each power failure.

remove the sharp spikes

Workers removed the sharp spikes from the old fence.

Synonyms and how they differ

spines

Spines is more technical and often refers to natural pointed parts on plants or animals.

thorns

Thorns are specifically the pointed growths on some plants, while spikes can be made of metal or other materials.

Word family

sharp adjective

Having a thin edge or point that can cut or pierce.

spike noun

A single thin, pointed object.

Commonly confused: sharp spikes or spike?

Practice

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Write a sentence using “sharp spikes”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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