IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary
cutting-edge
adjective/ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/Band 7
Last updated 21 July 2026
In short
“cutting-edge” is a Band 7 adjective that means the most advanced or innovative stage in the development of something. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.
Meaning
The most advanced or innovative stage in the development of something.
Example sentences
Natural, spoken examples at the level an examiner rewards.
- “The lab uses cutting-edge technology.”
- “Their research is at the cutting edge of medicine.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
state-of-the-artleading-edgeadvanced
Antonyms
outdatedold-fashioned
Collocations & common phrases
Word partners that make your usage sound natural — the difference between knowing a word and using it well.
Collocations
cutting-edge technologycutting-edge researchat the cutting edge
Common phrases
at the cutting edge of
Related words
Explore more vocabulary
Frequently asked questions
What does “cutting-edge” mean?
The most advanced or innovative stage in the development of something.
How do you use “cutting-edge” in a sentence?
For example: “The lab uses cutting-edge technology.”
What are some synonyms for “cutting-edge”?
Synonyms include state-of-the-art, leading-edge, advanced.
Is “cutting-edge” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 7 vocabulary, and collocations such as cutting-edge technology, cutting-edge research, at the cutting edge help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.
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