a formidable intellect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formidable intellect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who possesses great intelligence or mental capacity, often in a context that highlights their ability to think critically or solve complex problems. Example: "Her ability to analyze intricate theories and develop innovative solutions demonstrates that she truly has a formidable intellect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Mr. Black is a formidable intellect, even if critics deem his research superior to his writing.

The New York Times

A formidable intellect, Dr. Williams has written 14 books, including two of poetry, and speaks seven languages, including Welsh.

The New York Times

• People who knew Mr. Wolf remembered him last week as someone who brought a formidable intellect to whatever he did.

The New York Times

According to the author Letty Cottin Pogrebin, "He was both a fair-minded journalist and an unreconstructed lefty, a formidable intellect and a regular guy".

The New York Times - Books

An editor of a 2001 book, "Reagan, in His Own Hand," said that the Gipper possessed "a formidable intellect, as a reader, a thinker, a strategist".

The New York Times

Brown is a decent, humane man, with good intentions, a formidable intellect, and a sharp sense of humor, which he keeps well hidden.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

I learned more about food and eco-politics in 90 minutes than one might in a semester-long seminar taught by a less formidable intellect.

The New York Times

While Nietzsche mounted a formidable intellectual challenge to established beliefs, these two religious teachers emphasised that freedom from suffering involved something beyond the intellect.

The Guardian - Opinion

A man of formidable intellect, Wilson was not a natural backslapper, yet from a young age he envisioned a life in the public arena.

Forbes

Shark confirms that Self is the most daring and delightful novelist of his generation, a writer whose formidable intellect is mercilessly targeted on the limits of the cerebral as a means of understanding.

The Guardian - Books

With his formidable intellect went a legendary absent-mindedness.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a formidable intellect" to describe someone whose intellectual capabilities are noticeably strong and impressive, particularly in fields requiring critical thinking or complex problem-solving.

Common error

While "a formidable intellect" is a powerful phrase, avoid using it in casual or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "smart" or "bright" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formidable intellect" functions as a noun phrase, where "formidable" is an adjective modifying the noun "intellect". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English and serves to describe the magnitude of someone's cognitive abilities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formidable intellect" is a phrase used to describe someone with impressive mental capabilities, often in contexts requiring critical thinking and complex problem-solving. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various writing styles. It's commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and formal business contexts, making it suitable for formal and neutral registers. While powerful, avoid overusing it in informal settings to maintain an appropriate tone. Alternatives include "a brilliant mind" or "exceptional intelligence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brilliant mind

Replaces "formidable intellect" with a more common synonym for intelligence.

exceptional intelligence

Substitutes "formidable intellect" with a phrase that directly emphasizes the high degree of intelligence.

remarkable mental capacity

Focuses on the capacity of the mind rather than just intellect.

profound intellectual ability

Highlights the depth and strength of the intellectual capabilities.

astounding cognitive skills

Emphasizes cognitive skills as a demonstration of intellect.

sharp and insightful mind

Adds the aspect of insightfulness to the description of intellectual prowess.

an extraordinary understanding

Shifts the focus to understanding as a manifestation of intellect.

a powerful analytical mind

Highlights analytical skills as a key component of intellect.

deep intellectual resources

Focuses on intellect as a resource, implying a wealth of knowledge and ability.

highly developed cognitive functions

Uses more technical language to describe advanced cognitive abilities.

FAQs

How can I use "a formidable intellect" in a sentence?

You can use "a formidable intellect" to describe someone's impressive mental capabilities. For example: "Her ability to analyze intricate theories demonstrates that she has "a formidable intellect"."

What are some alternatives to "a formidable intellect"?

Alternatives include "a brilliant mind", "exceptional intelligence", or "remarkable mental capacity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a formidable intellect"?

Use "a formidable intellect" in formal or academic writing to describe someone with exceptional thinking abilities. It's particularly fitting when highlighting their capacity for critical analysis or complex problem-solving.

What is the difference between "a formidable intellect" and "high intelligence"?

"High intelligence" is a general term, while "a formidable intellect" suggests not only intelligence but also strength, depth, and the capacity to use intellect effectively. The latter implies a more active and impressive application of mental capabilities.