a glimmer of intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a glimmer of intelligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or fleeting indication of intelligence or insight in someone or something. Example: "Despite his struggles in school, there was a glimmer of intelligence in his creative problem-solving skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

When we look into their eyes and see a glimmer of intelligence, we see a reflection of our own minds.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was a torrent of information, and it gave even the most dedicated newshounds a glimmer of what intelligence officials mean when they complain about "drinking from the fire hose" of planet-spanning communications networks.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only Jimmy Fuqua (Phillip Van Lear), an earnest ex-convict who has been struggling to earn a living at a car wash, has a glimmering of moral intelligence.

The New York Times

The report does contain a glimmer of good news.

Independent

The report also included a glimmer of good news.

Los Angeles Times

Believe it or not, in a pop culture filled with mindless reality shows and slick formula franchises, there are still a few players out there whose work offers a glimmer of hope that originality and intelligence can prevail.

Huffington Post

The news contains at least a glimmer of hope.

Forbes

A glimmer of gongkaihua?

The Economist

A glimmer of a smile.

Independent

I began to get a glimmer of a glimmer.

The New Yorker

Not a glimmer of emotion.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a glimmer of intelligence" when you want to suggest a small or faint indication of someone's intellectual capacity, especially in situations where it might not be immediately obvious or fully developed.

Common error

Avoid using "a glimmer of intelligence" when describing someone who consistently demonstrates high levels of intellect. This phrase is best reserved for moments when intelligence is subtly revealed or unexpectedly present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a glimmer of intelligence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a faint or initial indication of intellectual capacity. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a glimmer of intelligence" is a noun phrase used to describe a faint or initial indication of intellectual capacity. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in various contexts. It's most frequently found in news and media sources. While it may not be a very common phrase, it serves the purpose of conveying hope or potential when intellectual ability is subtly revealed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A spark of intellect

Replaces "glimmer" with "spark", suggesting a more sudden and noticeable indication.

A hint of intelligence

Uses "hint" to convey a subtle sign of intelligence.

A trace of intelligence

Emphasizes the subtlety and faintness of the intelligence.

A sign of intellect

Replaces "glimmer" with "sign", focusing on the indication rather than its intensity.

A modicum of intelligence

Replaces "glimmer" with "modicum", implying a small quantity or degree.

A flicker of intelligence

Uses "flicker" to suggest an intermittent or unstable indication.

An inkling of intelligence

Suggests a vague or uncertain sense of intelligence.

A shade of intelligence

Implies a subtle degree or aspect of intelligence.

A touch of intelligence

Indicates a slight amount of intelligence present.

A soupçon of intelligence

Emphasizes the small and subtle nature of the intelligence (soupçon is borrowed from French).

FAQs

How can I use "a glimmer of intelligence" in a sentence?

You can use "a glimmer of intelligence" to describe a faint or initial sign of someone's intellectual capacity, such as, "Despite his initial hesitations, I saw "a glimmer of intelligence" in his eyes when he grasped the complex concept."

What's a good alternative to "a glimmer of intelligence"?

Alternatives include "a spark of intellect", "a hint of intelligence", or "a trace of intelligence", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a glimmer of intelligence"?

It's suitable when you want to highlight a subtle or unexpected sign of intelligence. It's often used when someone's intelligence is not immediately apparent or when they are facing challenges.

Is "a glimmer of intelligence" a formal or informal expression?

"A glimmer of intelligence" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the overall tone and subject matter of the writing.