a flash of genius

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a flash of genius" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and brilliant idea or insight that someone has. Example: "During the brainstorming session, Sarah had a flash of genius that led to the perfect solution for our marketing campaign."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

This showed a flash of genius.

The New York Times - Magazine

In 1941 it set the bar higher, requiring a "flash of genius".

The Economist

Before that, an invention was supposed to exhibit a "flash of genius".

The New York Times

They make me smile, fill me with pride and, on occasion, a flash of genius fills the classroom.

The Guardian

It's the essence of theatre, which Berkeley, with a flash of genius in the midst of a workmanlike production, distills into the essence of cinema.

The New Yorker

And, in a flash of genius, he got himself a dog.Three in five American households own animals, so pet politics is serious.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The movies frequently depict writers typing in the throes of inspiration, but less often show these people staring dumbly at the blank page, losing days to editorial chores, struggling to rewrite, and snacking — pursuits as much a part of an enduring writing life as any flash of genius.

The New Yorker

The movies frequently depict writers typing in the throes of inspiration, but less often show these people staring dumbly at the blank page, losing days to editorial chores, struggling to rewrite, and snacking pursuits as much a part of an enduring writing life as any flash of genius.

The New Yorker

The work reveals Dragonetti's compositional proficiency and imagination but lacks any flash of genius or profundity to elevate it beyond the quotidian.

The New York Times - Arts

But before building a large-cast, big-budget musical around a relative unknown, the show's director, Michael Unger, wanted another piece of insurance: a "flash of Chaplin genius," as Mr. McClure put it.

The New York Times

By the end, courtesy of a steely defence and a flash of Healey genius in the 79th minute, it was impossible to recall a European club side more steadfastly allergic to defeat.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a flash of genius" to describe a sudden, brilliant idea that significantly impacts a situation or project. For example: "Her solution to the problem was truly a flash of genius."

Common error

Avoid using "a flash of genius" to describe everyday occurrences or simple solutions. Reserve it for truly exceptional and innovative ideas to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a flash of genius" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It refers to a sudden, brilliant idea or moment of exceptional insight. According to Ludwig, this phrase is deemed grammatically correct and usable in written English, as shown by various examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a flash of genius" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a sudden, brilliant idea or moment of exceptional insight. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across various writing styles. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it is predominantly found in news and media sources. To avoid misuse, it should be reserved for genuinely remarkable ideas and not overused in mundane situations. Alternatives include "a stroke of brilliance" or "a moment of inspiration".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a stroke of brilliance

Replaces "flash" with "stroke", emphasizing the sudden and impactful nature of the genius.

a moment of inspiration

Focuses on the inspirational aspect, highlighting the creative spark.

a spark of insight

Uses "spark" to convey a sudden burst of understanding.

a burst of ingenuity

Replaces "genius" with "ingenuity", emphasizing cleverness and inventiveness.

a sudden inspiration

Emphasizes the sudden nature of the inspiration, omitting the word "genius".

a brilliant idea

Simplifies the phrase, focusing on the quality of the idea.

an ingenious thought

Highlights the clever and original nature of the thought.

a clever innovation

Emphasizes the innovative aspect of the genius.

a groundbreaking concept

Focuses on the originality and impact of the concept.

a remarkable insight

Highlights the noteworthy nature of the understanding or perspective gained.

FAQs

How can I use "a flash of genius" in a sentence?

Use "a flash of genius" to describe a moment of sudden, brilliant inspiration or insight. For example: "The inventor's "a flash of genius" led to the creation of a revolutionary new technology."

What are some alternatives to saying "a flash of genius"?

You can use alternatives like "a stroke of brilliance", "a moment of inspiration", or "a spark of insight" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a flash of genius" in formal writing?

Yes, "a flash of genius" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, although it should be used judiciously to describe genuinely remarkable ideas or insights.

What is the difference between "a flash of genius" and "a good idea"?

"A flash of genius" implies a sudden, brilliant, and often unexpected insight that leads to a significant breakthrough. "A good idea" is more general and can refer to any helpful or useful thought.