state of the art
/ˌsteɪt.əv.ði.ˈɑːrt/
Meaning
This phrase describes something that incorporates the newest, most advanced ideas, technology, or features available at the present time. It is commonly used to market high-quality products or describe modern corporate facilities and systems. When used as an adjective before a noun, it should be hyphenated (state-of-the-art), but left open when it follows the verb.
Examples
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Our company just invested in a state-of-the-art security system for the new headquarters.
Our company just invested in a state-of-the-art security system for the new headquarters.
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The research team has access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment.
The research team has access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment.
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Their new software platform is truly state of the art.
Their new software platform is truly state of the art.
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To remain competitive, we need to upgrade our outdated servers to state-of-the-art technology.
To remain competitive, we need to upgrade our outdated servers to state-of-the-art technology.
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The factory is equipped with state-of-the-art robotics that automate the entire assembly line.
The factory is equipped with state-of-the-art robotics that automate the entire assembly line.
Common Mistakes
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✗ They bought a state of art computer.
✓ They bought a state-of-the-art computer.
You must include both definite articles and hyphens when using it as a compound adjective before a noun: 'state-of-the-art'.
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✗ This technology is very state of the art.
✓ This technology is state of the art.
'State of the art' is an absolute concept (it either is the most advanced or it isn't). Avoid using intensifiers like 'very' or 'extremely' directly before it.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The new research facility boasts ___ equipment that will speed up our development cycle.
💡 Most advanced, modern technology.
Show answer
state-of-the-art
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Although their design is modern, their backend system is far from ___.
💡 Advanced and up-to-date.
Show answer
state of the art