sharp increase — sudden large rise
collocationB2IELTS 5.5+neutralcommon
A sharp increase is when something goes up very quickly and by a lot, often in a short period of time.
Say it like a native
Textbook There was a sudden and substantial upward movement in prices.
Native There was a sharp increase in prices.
'A sharp increase/rise' is the standard collocation in news and reports.
Pattern: sharp increase in [noun]
In use
- 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
Common mistake
✗ There was a strong increase in cases.
✓ There was a sharp increase in cases.
Increases are 'sharp' or 'steep' (sudden and big), not 'strong'.
Common collocations
a sharp increase in— in, prices, demand, temperature
Don't confuse it
'Gradual increase' means something rises slowly over time, while 'sharp increase' means it happens fast.