Grammar fix

sharp increase

sudden large rise

A sharp increase is when something goes up very quickly and by a lot, often in a short period of time.

collocationB2common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

There was a sharp increase in the number of people using public transport after the new metro line opened.daily life
In recent years, many cities have experienced a sharp increase in housing prices, making it difficult for young people to buy homes.IELTS speaking

Pattern: sharp increase in [noun]

WrongThere was a strong increase in cases.

RightThere was a sharp increase in cases.

Increases are 'sharp' or 'steep' (sudden and big), not 'strong'.

Patternsharp increase in [noun]

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff There was a sudden and substantial upward movement in prices.

Natural There was a sharp increase in prices.

'A sharp increase/rise' is the standard collocation in news and reports.

Words that usually travel with it.

'Gradual increase' means something rises slowly over time, while 'sharp increase' means it happens fast.