C1adjective2K

Sheer

UK /["/ʃɪə(r)/"]/US /["/ʃɪr/"]/

Definition

used to emphasize the size, degree or amount of something

In simple words: Very thin or transparent; nothing can be seen through.

Examples

The area is under threat from the sheer number of tourists using it.
We were impressed by the sheer size of the cathedral.
The concert was sheer delight.
sheer luck/chance/coincidence/joy/bliss/determination
I only agreed out of sheer desperation.
sheer terror/panic/exhaustion/hell
**sheer cliffs/slopes**
Outside there was a sheer drop down to the sea below.
sheer nylon

Usage notes

Often used to describe fabric or clothing that is very thin. In some contexts, it can also mean complete or total, such as 'sheer joy'. It's not commonly used in highly formal settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of ‘sheer’ as if you can see right through it, like a sheer veil.

Collocations

sheer fabric
sheer determination
sheer cliffs
sheer happiness
sheer volume

Synonyms

utter

Antonyms

opaque
thick
heavy

Common mistakes

Confused with 'shear' which refers to cutting something.
Using 'sheer' in a solid context, like 'sheer mountains' instead of 'sheer cliffs'.
Incorrectly spelling it as 'sheer' instead of 'shed'.