state of the art
4 synonyms and 3 antonyms for state of the art, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Using the most advanced methods or technology currently available.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use state of the art
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Hyphenated before a noun (a state-of-the-art lab) and open after the verb (the lab is state of the art). Heavily overused in marketing, which has weakened it.
Etymology
From art in its older sense of a practical skill or craft, as in the arts and sciences, so the phrase means the current condition of the craft.
Full origin of state of the art →Frequently asked questions
Is state of the art hyphenated?
Hyphenate it when it comes directly before the noun it describes: a state-of-the-art kitchen. Leave the hyphens out when it follows the verb: the kitchen is state of the art.
What is the difference between state of the art and cutting edge?
State of the art means the best that is currently established and available. Cutting edge, and more so bleeding edge, suggests something newer and less proven, still being pioneered and possibly still risky.