She has a sharp tongue and it can occasionally turn hurtful. The correct answer is (a) hurtful.

Idiom Meaning

“Sharp tongue” is an idiom describing someone who speaks critically, sarcastically, or harshly, often with biting wit that cuts like a blade. This tendency can lead to unintended emotional harm when unchecked.​​

Option Analysis

• (a) Hurtful: Fits perfectly, as a sharp tongue’s critical words often wound feelings or relationships, turning occasionally negative.​

• (b) Left: Irrelevant; refers to direction, not speech traits, making no contextual sense.​

• (c) Methodical: Means systematic or orderly, which contrasts with the impulsive, cutting nature of a sharp tongue.​

• (d) Vital: Implies essential or lively, but ignores the idiom’s negative connotation of harm over positivity.​

Introduction to Sharp Tongue Idiom

A sharp tongue refers to a tendency for harsh, witty, or sarcastic speech that stings like a knife. In sentences like “She has a sharp tongue and it can occasionally turn hurtful,” it highlights how such verbal sharpness risks emotional damage.​​

Why “Hurtful” is the Right Choice

This phrase from exams like GATE EC 2017 tests idiom comprehension. “Hurtful” completes it logically, as sharp remarks often cause pain despite good intentions. Other options fail: “left” is directional nonsense, “methodical” suggests precision unrelated to criticism, and “vital” implies value, not negativity.​

Origins and Usage Examples

Originating from metaphors of words as weapons, “sharp tongue” dates back centuries, as in Washington Irving’s works. Modern uses include: “Her sharp tongue dismantled arguments but turned hurtful in anger”. It warns of communication’s double edge in professional or social settings.​

Tips to Tame a Sharp Tongue

• Pause before speaking to soften delivery.

• Use empathy: Consider impact over wit.

• Practice active listening for balanced exchanges.​