a mind for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mind for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a natural ability or inclination towards a particular subject or activity. Example: "She has a mind for mathematics, which makes her an excellent engineer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It shows he's got a mind for this.

The New York Times - Sports

To set it up, he'd need someone with a mind for business.

The Guardian

In 1983 he entered the police force with a mind for reform.

The Guardian

Mirza's mother, Naseema, also had a mind for business, and she and her husband often worked together.

The New Yorker

She has a mind for figures and procedures and levelheaded thinking, and in a number of matters Lovett depends on her judgment.

The New Yorker

He was too whimsical, and... he was too delicate a mind for a good deal of the rough work that we have to do in the Society".

The New Yorker

Jeff Bezos, the C.E.O. and founder of Amazon, used to work at a hedge fund, and he has a mind for numbers.

The New Yorker

It's natural that Mr. Yospyn, who is based in Washington, would have a mind for noticing patterns or strange relationships, however subtle they might be.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

She also has a good mind for a mile and a half, where she'll settle".

The New York Times - Sports

So how can we take control of a wandering mind for a happier and more productive life?

BBC

He has a great mind for it, a great eye for it.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's natural talents or inclinations, use "a mind for" to emphasize their capacity for understanding and excelling in a specific area.

Common error

Avoid using "a mind for" when you simply mean someone is interested in something. The phrase implies a natural ability or aptitude, not just a passing curiosity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mind for" functions as an idiomatic expression denoting a natural aptitude, talent, or inherent capability in a particular area. Ludwig examples show it preceding nouns indicating specific fields, such as "business", "numbers", or "politics".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a mind for" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe someone's natural aptitude or talent in a specific area. Ludwig examples show its frequent use in News & Media, but also in Science and Wiki contexts. While relatively informal, it is understood in both professional and casual settings. Consider alternatives like "an aptitude for" or "a knack for" to add variety to your writing. Remember that the phrase implies more than just interest; it suggests an inherent ability or inclination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an aptitude for

Indicates a natural ability or talent, similar to "a mind for" but emphasizes innate skill.

a talent for

Highlights a special or inborn ability, closely related to having "a mind for" something.

a knack for

Implies a clever or skillful way of doing something, akin to having a natural inclination.

an inclination toward

Suggests a natural tendency or preference, similar to having a predisposition.

a flair for

Emphasizes a distinctive and stylish quality or talent.

a gift for

Highlights an exceptional natural ability, often seen as innate.

a proclivity for

Denotes a natural or habitual inclination or tendency.

a bent for

Suggests a strong natural inclination or talent.

a predisposition to

Indicates a susceptibility or tendency towards something.

a propensity for

Similar to a proclivity, indicating a natural inclination or tendency.

FAQs

How can I use "a mind for" in a sentence?

Use "a mind for" to indicate someone has a natural talent or aptitude in a particular area. For example, "She has "a mind for business", which is why she excels in her role as CEO."

What are some alternatives to saying "a mind for"?

You can use alternatives like "an aptitude for", "a talent for", or "a knack for" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a mind for" or "an interest in"?

"A mind for" implies a natural ability or talent, while "an interest in" simply means someone is curious or engaged with something. Use "a mind for" when you want to emphasize innate skill, and "an interest in" when describing simple curiosity.

What's the difference between "a mind for" and "a passion for"?

"A mind for" suggests a natural skill or aptitude, while "a passion for" implies strong enthusiasm and dedication. You can have a passion without a natural skill, and vice versa. They describe different qualities.