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.
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.
In recent years, many cities have experienced a sharp increase in housing prices, making it difficult for young people to buy homes.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: There was a strong increase in cases.
Say: There was a sharp increase in cases.
Increases are 'sharp' or 'steep' (sudden and big), not 'strong'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'A sharp increase/rise' is the standard collocation in news and reports.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
a sharp increase in
- in
- prices
- demand
- temperature