a bit of a brain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit of a brain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used informally to refer to someone who is intelligent or has a good understanding of something, often in a lighthearted or humorous context. Example: "She may seem quiet, but she's actually a bit of a brain when it comes to mathematics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

These might not always be in the best condition and examining or interpreting them may be difficult, but even a patch of skin or a bit of a brain has enormous potential.

The Guardian

When I worked for him — briefly — and then covered him, he made an impression because underneath his waspy, patrician manner he had a very practical understanding of his own limitations, and as a result, Mr. Bradley, 59, is a bit of a brain collector, seeking out intellectual talent and listening closely at every turn.

The New York Times

"You need to have a bit of a brain as well.

BBC

"In the second-half we got back into it and had a bit of a brain freeze.

BBC

It's a bit of a brain scramble to figure out the crazy schedule as so many film screenings clash with each other.

BBC

He hopes that listeners "have a bit of a brain wipe" before they listen to the mix and ends our conversation with a promise: "Just give it a moment, and the drift will pull you away". .

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Envisioning what's inside is a bit of a brain-buster.

The New York Times

Yes, it is a bit of a brain-dead, simple concept, and strangely, web-focused in a mobile-first world.

TechCrunch

I guess I've got a bit of a butterfly brain and I've always enjoyed quizzes.

Independent

"I've got a bit of a baby brain going on," she said, referring to her four-week-old who was with her.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Our protagonist is a bit of a disembodied brain, highly capable of poignancy but not exactly introspection or, as is welcome in memoirs, overwhelming indiscretion.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit of a brain" in informal settings or when aiming for a lighthearted tone. It's suitable when you want to suggest someone is intelligent without being overly serious or formal.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit of a brain" in formal writing or professional settings where a more direct and serious tone is expected. Opt for phrases like "intelligent" or "intellectually capable" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit of a brain" functions as a descriptive idiom, often used to indicate that someone possesses intelligence or knowledge in a particular area. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's generally used informally.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit of a brain" is an idiom used to describe someone who is intelligent or knowledgeable, particularly in a specific area. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for informal contexts. It is primarily found in News & Media sources. When writing, it’s best to reserve this phrase for lighthearted or casual communication, avoiding its use in formal or professional settings where more direct language is preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather clever

Substitutes "brain" with "clever", maintaining a similar level of informality.

quite bright

Uses "bright" as a synonym for intelligent, offering a slightly more positive connotation.

somewhat intelligent

Replaces the idiomatic expression with a more direct, literal descriptor of intelligence.

intellectually capable

Focuses on the ability to perform intellectual tasks, rather than just possessing intelligence.

a smart cookie

Offers a more informal and playful idiom for someone who is intelligent.

of keen intellect

Highlights the sharpness and perceptiveness of someone's intellectual abilities.

possessing intelligence

Replaces the idiom with a more formal and explicit statement of intellectual capacity.

having intellect

Similar to 'possessing intelligence' but emphasizes innate intellectual ability.

endowed with intelligence

Emphasizes the natural or inherent aspect of intelligence.

not unintelligent

Uses a double negative to imply intelligence, which can sometimes be used ironically or subtly.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit of a brain" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit of a brain" to describe someone who is intelligent or knowledgeable, as in "She's "a bit of a brain" when it comes to science, always acing her exams."

What's a more formal alternative to "a bit of a brain"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "intelligent", "intellectually gifted", or "highly knowledgeable". These alternatives are more appropriate for academic or professional contexts.

Is it appropriate to use "a bit of a brain" in professional communication?

While "a bit of a brain" is generally understood, it's best reserved for informal settings. In professional communication, opt for more direct and respectful language such as "knowledgeable" or "competent".

What's the difference between saying someone is "smart" versus saying they have "a bit of a brain"?

Saying someone is "smart" is a general statement of intelligence. Using ""a bit of a brain"" is often more playful and implies a particular skill or knowledge in a specific area.