If you’re looking for the 15 best ceramic knife sets that combine sharpness and style in 2025, I’ve got you covered. These sets feature ultra-sharp, long-lasting blades made from durable ceramic or zirconia coatings, paired with modern, colorful handles and sleek designs. They’re lightweight and easy to maintain, perfect for effortless food prep. Keep in mind, they’re fragile and best for fruits, vegetables, and bread. If you want to discover the top options, just continue exploring what’s available.
Key Takeaways
- Top ceramic knife sets in 2025 feature ultra-sharp blades with long-lasting edge retention for precise slicing.
- These sets combine modern, stylish designs with vibrant colors and sleek aesthetics to enhance kitchen decor.
- Made from durable ceramic or zirconia coatings, they resist rust, odors, and stains for easy maintenance.
- Handles are ergonomic and lightweight, providing comfort and control during extended use.
- Many sets include safety features like blade guards, protective sheaths, and organized storage options.
CAROTE 12-Piece Knife Set with Blade Guards
If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish ceramic knife set that’s perfect for everyday use, the CAROTE 12-Piece Knife Set with Blade Guards is an excellent choice. The stainless steel blades with a white granite nonstick ceramic coating glide through food effortlessly and are easy to clean. The ergonomic wood grain handles provide a comfortable, steady grip, even when wet. With included blade guards, storage is safe and compact—great for kitchens, camping, or RV trips. Lightweight yet powerful, these knives combine modern design with durability and safety, making them a versatile and attractive addition to any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks, camping enthusiasts, and RV travelers seeking a stylish, reliable, and safe ceramic knife set for everyday food prep.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp blades with excellent edge retention for effortless slicing of meat, vegetables, and bread
- Ergonomic wood grain handles provide a comfortable, firm grip even when wet
- Includes blade guards and storage case for safe, compact, and organized storage
Cons:
- Officially not dishwasher safe; requires handwashing to maintain blade quality
- Ceramic coating may chip or crack if mishandled or dropped
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic knife sets
Cuisinart 12-Piece Ceramic Coated Knife Set
The Cuisinart 12-Piece Ceramic Coated Knife Set stands out as an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs seeking professional-quality tools at an affordable price. This set includes six sharp blades—Chef, Slicing, Bread, Santoku, Utility, and Paring—with matching blade guards for safe storage. Made from stainless steel with a ceramic nonstick coating, these knives are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean in the dishwasher. The vibrant color coding makes identification simple, while ergonomic handles ensure comfort during extended use. Overall, it delivers precision, safety, and style, making it a practical addition for any modern kitchen.
Best For: beginner to intermediate home cooks seeking a versatile, affordable, and safe knife set with professional performance.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp blades with ceramic nonstick coating for easy slicing and reduced sticking
- Color-coded handles for quick identification and matching blade guards for safe storage
- Lightweight, ergonomic design with stainless steel handles for comfort during extended use
Cons:
- Blades may dull or bend with heavy or frequent chopping, requiring eventual replacement
- Some users report blades losing sharpness over time or needing sharpening
- Heavy-duty tasks may be challenging due to the set’s lightweight construction and softer ceramic coating
CAROTE 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Wooden Block
For anyone seeking a stylish and reliable set of knives that combines modern design with excellent performance, the CAROTE 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Wooden Block stands out. Its sleek white ceramic-coated blades, paired with matching handles, create a contemporary look that elevates any kitchen. The set offers precise cutting for effortless meal prep, thanks to expertly crafted blades that stay sharp. The wooden block not only adds aesthetic appeal but also guarantees safe, organized storage. Durable and easy to clean, this versatile set covers all your essential culinary needs, making it perfect for those who want both style and functionality in their kitchen tools.
Best For: those who want a stylish, reliable, and versatile kitchen knife set that combines modern design with excellent cutting performance.
Pros:
- Sleek white ceramic-coated blades with matching handles for a modern, attractive look
- Precise craftsmanship ensures sharp blades and effortless slicing
- Includes a wooden block for safe, organized storage and added aesthetic appeal
Cons:
- Ceramic blades may be more prone to chipping if handled roughly or dropped
- Requires careful cleaning to avoid damaging the ceramic coating
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks like cutting through bones or frozen foods
Vos Ceramic Knife Set with Block (13-Piece Kitchen Knife Set)
The Vos Ceramic Knife Set with Block is an excellent choice for both professional chefs and home cooks who value precision, elegance, and low-maintenance tools. This 13-piece set includes everything you need: bread, chef, santoku, utility, paring knives, six steak knives, and a peeler, all stored in a sleek wooden block. Made from advanced zirconia ceramic, the blades stay sharp longer, resist rust, acids, and odors, and are lightweight to reduce fatigue. They’re dishwasher safe, easy to clean, and don’t require frequent sharpening. This set combines functionality with style, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen or an impressive gift.
Best For: home cooks, professional chefs, and culinary enthusiasts seeking a stylish, durable, and low-maintenance knife set for everyday use or gifting.
Pros:
- Crafted from advanced zirconia ceramic for ultra-sharp, long-lasting blades that resist rust, acids, and odors
- Complete 13-piece set with a variety of knives and steak knives, all stored in an elegant wooden block for easy access and display
- Dishwasher safe and low-maintenance, eliminating the need for frequent sharpening and ensuring convenience
Cons:
- Ceramic blades may be more brittle than steel and could chip or break if mishandled or dropped
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks such as prying or cutting through bone or hard materials
- Limited flexibility compared to traditional steel knives, which may affect certain cutting techniques
Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block and Sharpener
If you’re looking for a stylish, reliable set that combines sharpness and durability, the Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block and Sharpener is an excellent choice. Made from high carbon stainless steel with a ceramic coating, these knives stay sharp longer and resist sticking. The set includes essential knives, a sleek black hardwood block with a built-in sharpener, and ergonomic handles for comfort. Customers love their lightweight feel, attractive blue color, and versatile performance. With a 4.6-star rating and a 100-year warranty, this set offers great value and practicality for everyday cooking and gifting occasions.
Best For: home cooks and gift buyers seeking a stylish, durable, and versatile knife set with sharp blades and ergonomic handles.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp blades made from high carbon stainless steel with ceramic coating for long-lasting performance
- Elegant blue color and sleek black hardwood block enhance kitchen aesthetics
- Comfortable, ergonomic handles and built-in sharpener for ease of use and maintenance
Cons:
- Dishwasher safety may cause concerns for some users over long-term durability
- The weight of approximately 6.85 pounds could be heavy for extended use or storage
- Limited color options outside the stylish blue design
Cuisinart 12-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Blade Guards
The Cuisinart 12-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Blade Guards stands out as an ideal choice for home cooks who want safety, style, and reliable performance in one package. Made with high-quality stainless steel and a ceramic coating, these knives are praised for their sharpness and easy non-stick slicing. The vibrant, multicolored handles and matching blade guards add visual appeal and safety, preventing cross-contamination and accidental cuts. While not dishwasher safe, hand washing keeps them in top condition. With a lifetime warranty and excellent customer ratings, this set offers great value for everyday cooking, blending durability, safety, and style seamlessly.
Best For: home cooks seeking a colorful, safe, and reliable knife set for everyday kitchen tasks with easy non-stick slicing capabilities.
Pros:
- Sharp, balanced knives with vibrant, attractive handles
- Includes protective blade guards for safe storage
- Durable stainless steel construction with ceramic coating for non-stick performance
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing to prevent rust and tip damage
- Some users report tip fragility or minor discoloration over time
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic knife sets
Vos Ceramic Knife Set in Elegant Gift Box
Looking for a gift that combines elegance and practicality? The Vos Ceramic Knife Set in an elegant gift box is perfect. It includes a 6-inch chef knife, a 5-inch santoku, and a 4-inch paring knife, all with lightweight, ergonomic handles for comfort. Each knife has a protective sheath for safe storage. The ultra-sharp ceramic blades cut effortlessly through various foods, resist rust, and won’t impart metallic tastes or odors. No sharpening needed for years. Dishwasher safe and easy to maintain, this set is ideal for both professional chefs and home cooks. Plus, the beautiful gift box makes it a thoughtful present for holidays or special occasions.
Best For: home cooks, professional chefs, and anyone seeking a durable, elegant gift for special occasions.
Pros:
- Ultra-sharp ceramic blades for effortless slicing and precise cuts
- Rust-resistant, odorless blades that require no sharpening for years
- Elegant gift box packaging makes it an ideal present for holidays and special occasions
Cons:
- Ceramic blades can be brittle and may chip or break if mishandled
- Not suitable for cutting through very hard foods or bones
- Limited to slicing and prep tasks; not ideal for heavy-duty kitchen use
Kyocera Ceramic Knife Set (4 Pieces)
For cooking enthusiasts who prioritize sharpness and precision, the Kyocera Ceramic Knife Set (4 Pieces) delivers exceptional performance at an affordable price. It includes a 7-inch Chef’s Santoku, 5.5-inch Santoku, 4.5-inch Utility, and 3-inch Paring knife, all with Kyocera’s proprietary zirconia ceramic blades. These hand-sharpened blades stay razor-sharp up to ten times longer than steel, making slicing effortless and precise. The lightweight design enhances handling, while the non-reactive ceramic preserves ingredient freshness and flavor. With sleek black and white options, this set adds style to any kitchen. Just remember, ceramic blades are fragile, so proper care is essential for long-lasting performance.
Best For: cooking enthusiasts and home cooks seeking ultra-sharp, lightweight ceramic knives for precise slicing of fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp blades that stay sharp up to 10 times longer than steel
- Lightweight design for comfortable handling and maneuverability
- Non-reactive ceramic surface preserves food freshness and flavor
Cons:
- Fragile and prone to chipping or breaking if mishandled or used on hard foods
- Limited to slicing soft, boneless ingredients; not suitable for frozen or hard foods
- Often requires careful storage with blade covers to prevent damage
Kyocera Advanced Ceramics 3-Piece Ceramic Knife Set
If you’re seeking a reliable set of ceramic knives that combines sharpness with everyday versatility, the Kyocera Advanced Ceramics 3-Piece Ceramic Knife Set is an excellent choice. It includes a 6-inch chef’s knife, a 5-inch micro serrated knife, and a 3-inch paring knife, perfect for slicing fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats. Made from Kyocera’s proprietary zirconia ceramic, these blades stay razor-sharp at least 10 times longer than metal options. The lightweight, ergonomic design offers easy handling, while the non-reactive material preserves freshness and flavor. Just remember, these knives are brittle—handle with care and avoid cutting on hard surfaces to prevent damage.
Best For: home cooks seeking a sharp, lightweight ceramic knife set for everyday slicing of fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp blades that stay sharp at least 10 times longer than metal knives
- Lightweight, ergonomic design for comfortable handling and precise cuts
- Non-reactive ceramic material preserves food freshness and flavor
Cons:
- Fragile blades prone to chipping or breaking if dropped or used on hard surfaces
- Not suitable for cutting hard or frozen foods
- Some users report durability issues and challenges with customer support for blade damage
Ceramic Knife Set with Protective Cover (4-Piece)
The Ceramic Knife Set with Protective Cover (4-Piece) stands out as an excellent choice for home cooks and professionals who prioritize safety and convenience. This set includes four lightweight ceramic knives, a peeler, and protective covers for safe storage. The blades, made of super-hard zirconia, stay sharp longer and resist rust, stains, and odors. Ergonomic handles ensure comfortable use for both left- and right-handed users. While the set excels in slicing fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats, care is essential to avoid chipping or breaking. Overall, this set combines sharpness, durability, and thoughtful design, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks and professionals seeking lightweight, sharp, and safe ceramic knives for slicing fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats with ease.
Pros:
- Super sharp, long-lasting zirconia ceramic blades that resist rust, stains, and odors
- Lightweight design with ergonomic handles suitable for both left- and right-handed users
- Comes with protective covers, making storage safe and convenient
Cons:
- Fragile blades prone to chipping or breaking if used to cut bones, frozen foods, or dropped
- Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning and careful handling
- Limited to slicing boneless foods; not suitable for cutting through bones or frozen items
Ceramic Knife Set with Sheaths (6″, 5″, 4″)
This ceramic knife set with sheaths (6″, 5″, 4″) stands out for anyone seeking a safe, organized way to handle their knives. The blades are crafted from high-quality zirconia, making them as hard as diamonds and incredibly durable. The ergonomic handles combine ceramic and wood for a lightweight, comfortable grip. The set’s sleek black blades feature plain edges, and the included sheaths ensure safe storage and transport. Perfect for home cooks and professionals alike, these knives glide effortlessly through ingredients, stay sharp longer, and resist staining. The elegant gift box adds a touch of sophistication, making it a practical and stylish addition to any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks and professional chefs seeking a lightweight, sharp, and safe ceramic knife set with elegant storage solutions.
Pros:
- Extremely sharp blades that glide effortlessly through ingredients.
- Durable and resistant to staining, odors, and corrosion.
- Ergonomic handles combining ceramic and wood for comfortable, lightweight use.
Cons:
- Fragile tips may chip or break if mishandled or dropped.
- Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing to prevent damage.
- Handle loosening can occur over time with prolonged use.
Ceramic Knife Set with Sheath (9 Pieces)
A ceramic knife set with sheaths offers a perfect blend of safety, convenience, and high performance for home cooks seeking reliable kitchen tools. This 9-piece set features 6-inch blades made from 100% zirconia, crafted at 2500°C with aerospace-grade material. They’re scratch-resistant, rustproof, lightweight—50% lighter than metal—and stay sharper three times longer than stainless steel. The set includes durable polypropylene handles, plain edges for precise cuts, and protective sheaths to keep edges safe and fingers secure. Ideal for slicing fruits, vegetables, and meats, these knives deliver smooth, clean cuts while resisting corrosion. Customer-rated 4.6 stars, they combine elegance, efficiency, and safety in every meal prep.
Best For: home cooks and gift-givers seeking a stylish, durable, and high-performance ceramic knife set for everyday kitchen tasks.
Pros:
- Extremely sharp blades that stay sharper 3x longer than stainless steel, ensuring precise cuts every time
- Lightweight design reduces user fatigue and makes handling easy and comfortable
- Protective sheaths and included blade guards enhance safety and prolong blade life
Cons:
- Fragile blades that require careful handling to avoid breakage or chipping
- Not dishwasher safe; must be hand washed to maintain quality and sharpness
- Limited versatility for heavy-duty tasks due to ceramic material’s brittleness
CAROTE 12-Piece Kitchen Knife Set
If you’re looking for a stylish and practical knife set that combines safety with everyday performance, the CAROTE 12-Piece Kitchen Knife Set stands out. It features six stainless steel knives with colorful ceramic coatings, delicate floral designs, and ergonomic silicone handles for a secure grip. The blades are razor-sharp, resistant to stains and corrosion, and come with protective guards for safe storage. Dishwasher safe and easy to clean, this set is perfect for daily use at home, camping, or in an RV. Its durable construction and attractive appearance make it a smart choice for anyone wanting both style and functionality in their kitchen.
Best For: home cooks, camp enthusiasts, and RV owners seeking a stylish, safe, and reliable knife set for everyday food preparation.
Pros:
- Attractive floral design and colorful ceramic coating add a stylish touch to any kitchen.
- Sharp stainless steel blades with protective guards ensure safe and efficient cutting.
- Dishwasher safe and easy to clean, making maintenance convenient.
Cons:
- Blades may require sharpening over time for more precise cuts.
- The set’s size and design may not suit professional chefs needing larger or specialized knives.
- Slightly shorter blade length (8 inches) may limit use for larger or tougher ingredients.
CAROTE 12-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set
The CAROTE 12-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set stands out as an excellent choice for home cooks seeking durable, sharp, and stylish knives that can handle everyday tasks with ease. These knives feature razor-sharp stainless steel blades coated with multicolored ceramic, resisting chips, stains, and corrosion for long-lasting performance. The ergonomic, wood-like plastic handles provide a comfortable, anti-slip grip, even when wet. With six blade guards for safe storage, the lightweight design makes handling effortless. Dishwasher safe and easy to maintain, this set combines rustic aesthetic with high functionality, offering excellent value and durability for daily use in any kitchen.
Best For: home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts seeking durable, sharp, and stylish knives for everyday kitchen tasks and outdoor use.
Pros:
- Razor-sharp stainless steel blades with ceramic coating resist chips, stains, and corrosion for long-lasting performance
- Ergonomic, anti-slip wood-like handles provide comfortable and secure grip, even when wet
- Includes blade guards for safe, convenient storage in drawers or on-the-go use
Cons:
- The dark metal finish may wear over time with regular use
- Does not include a knife block, requiring separate storage solutions
- Slightly lightweight design may feel less substantial compared to heavier professional knives
Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Ceramic Coating
For home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts alike, the Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Ceramic Coating offers a versatile and stylish solution. It includes essential knives like chef, slicing, santoku, bread, utility, and paring, plus kitchen shears and blade guards. The high carbon stainless steel blades stay sharp, while the ceramic coating prevents rust, flavor transfer, and corrosion. The stylish plastic handles with a wood-grain pattern add a modern touch. Safe sheaths make storage and travel easy, perfect for camping or kitchen drawers. Dishwasher safe and backed by a 99-year warranty, this set combines durability, functionality, and style effortlessly.
Best For: home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a versatile, durable, and stylish knife set for everyday use or outdoor activities.
Pros:
- High carbon stainless steel blades provide exceptional sharpness for effortless slicing.
- Ceramic coating prevents rust, corrosion, and flavor transfer, maintaining food quality.
- Stylish plastic handles with wood-grain pattern combine modern aesthetics with comfortable grip.
Cons:
- Dishwasher safe, but frequent washing may affect the longevity of the ceramic coating.
- Includes multiple blade guards and sheaths, which may be cumbersome to store or carry in small spaces.
- The 99-year warranty is extensive but may require specific registration or conditions for claims.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Ceramic Knife Sets
When selecting a ceramic knife set, I look closely at the blade material and sharpness to guarantee precise cutting. Comfort and grip are also key, so I consider handle design and ergonomics. Additionally, I keep in mind durability, safety features, and how much maintenance each set requires to keep them in top shape.
Blade Material and Sharpness
Choosing a ceramic knife set means paying close attention to the blade material and sharpness, since these factors directly affect performance. Ceramic blades, especially those made from zirconia, are renowned for their incredible sharpness and edge retention, often staying sharp for years longer than steel. This means effortless cutting with minimal pressure, which reduces fatigue and enhances precision. The manufacturing process, like laser or hand-sharpening, influences the initial sharpness and how easily the blades can be resharpened. However, ceramic blades can be brittle if mishandled, especially on hard surfaces or bones, leading to chipping or dulling over time. Understanding these nuances helps guarantee you choose a set that maintains its sharpness and durability through everyday use.
Handle Comfort and Grip
A comfortable handle is essential for safe and efficient use of ceramic knives, as it guarantees a secure grip that reduces slipping and hand fatigue. An ergonomic design helps keep your wrist aligned properly, minimizing strain and lowering injury risk during extended use. Handles made from non-slip materials like silicone or textured plastic improve control, even when wet. The size and shape should fit your hand comfortably to prevent slipping or discomfort. Well-designed handles also provide better balance, allowing for more precise cuts and increased safety. When choosing a ceramic knife set, pay close attention to how the handles feel in your hand, as comfort and grip can considerably impact your overall experience and confidence in the kitchen.
Blade Durability and Fragility
Ceramic knives are known for their exceptional sharpness and hardness, but their inherent brittleness makes them susceptible to chipping or breaking if not handled carefully. Dropping the knife or using it on hard objects like bone or frozen foods can cause cracks or chips. The material’s hardness ensures a razor-sharp edge, but it also means the blades can crack under lateral impact or twisting. Proper handling is essential; avoid twisting the knife or applying excessive force during cutting. Using protective sheaths or blade covers helps prevent damage during storage and transport. Even with careful use, ceramic blades may need professional sharpening or replacement over time, highlighting their fragility. Choosing a set with durable blades and handling them properly extends their lifespan and keeps them performing at their best.
Safety and Storage Features
When selecting a ceramic knife set, safety and storage features play a vital role in maintaining both the longevity of the blades and your own safety. Look for sets that include blade guards or sheaths to protect blades and prevent accidental cuts during storage. Ergonomic handles with secure grips are essential for safe handling, especially when your hands are wet. Consider storage options like knife blocks or protective sleeves that keep blades organized and reduce the risk of damage or injury. Non-slip grips or textured handles enhance control, making use safer. Additionally, choose sets designed for easy cleaning, ideally dishwasher safe with protective covers to prevent injury during washing. Prioritizing these features ensures your knives stay sharp and safe to use over time.
Maintenance and Care Needs
To keep your ceramic knives performing their best, proper maintenance and care are essential. I recommend hand washing them gently with mild soap and avoiding the dishwasher, which can cause chipping or damage. Always store your knives with protective sheaths or in a designated knife holder to prevent accidental breakage and preserve their sharpness. Avoid cutting on hard surfaces like metal, glass, or stone, as these can chip or crack the blades. Regularly inspect your knives for chips or cracks, and replace any damaged ones promptly for safety and ideal performance. Proper storage reduces the risk of damage and extends the lifespan of your blades. With careful handling and maintenance, your ceramic knives will stay sharp, safe, and stylish for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Ceramic Knives Compare to Traditional Steel Knives in Durability?
Ceramic knives are less durable than traditional steel knives, especially when it comes to impact resistance. I’ve found that ceramic blades stay incredibly sharp longer but can chip or break if dropped or used on hard surfaces. Steel knives, on the other hand, are more flexible and withstand tougher tasks without chipping. If you prioritize sharpness and precision, ceramic is great, but for durability, steel still leads.
Are Ceramic Knives Suitable for All Types of Food Preparation?
Ceramic knives are great for slicing fruits, vegetables, and boneless meats, but I wouldn’t recommend them for all types of food prep. They can chip or break if used on hard items like bones, frozen foods, or thick, tough cuts. I find them perfect for precision work and softer foods, but for heavy-duty tasks, traditional steel knives are more reliable and versatile.
What Is the Best Way to Sharpen Ceramic Knives Safely?
To sharpen ceramic knives safely, I use a diamond sharpening stone, which gently hones their razor-sharp edge without chipping. I hold the knife at a consistent angle and glide it smoothly across the stone, imagining a delicate dance between blade and grit. This careful, steady approach preserves the ceramic’s strength and sharpness, ensuring my knives stay precise and safe to use in the kitchen.
Can Ceramic Knives Be Used for Cutting Frozen Foods?
Yes, you can use ceramic knives for cutting frozen foods, but I recommend caution. Frozen items are often very hard, and ceramic blades are brittle, so there’s a risk of chipping or breaking if you apply too much force. I suggest letting the food thaw slightly or using gentle, controlled cuts. Always avoid twisting or prying, and make sure your knife is sharp to minimize stress on the blade.
How Do I Prevent Chipping or Breaking My Ceramic Knives?
Think of ceramic knives as delicate glass sculptures—beautiful but fragile. To prevent chipping or breaking, I always use a soft cutting board like wood or plastic, avoiding hard surfaces like glass or stone. I also don’t twist or use excessive force when slicing, and I store my knives safely in a sheath or knife block. Handling them gently guarantees they stay sharp and intact, just like a fine piece of art.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ceramic knife set is like selecting a trusted compass for your kitchen adventures. Each set guides you through effortless slicing and stylish design, turning everyday cooking into a journey of precision and beauty. Remember, the perfect set isn’t just about sharpness or looks—it’s about finding that reliable partner that feels like an extension of yourself. So, pick wisely, and let your culinary voyage be smooth and inspired.
