a radar for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a radar for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tool or method for detecting or identifying something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "She has a radar for spotting talent in young musicians."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"It was a radar for beautiful stuff," said Larry Weinberg, a fellow collector and writer.

The New York Times

A good chimney sweep, Mr. Gulland said, "will have a radar for screw-ups like that, because there'll be hints".

The New York Times

NANCY MAURO A Radar for Sales She concocted the gourmet spreads at home in Forest Hills, Queens; he chopped the ingredients.

The New York Times

Friends say the sparse office shouldn't be confused with disengagement: DeStefano is a strategic thinker with a radar for assessing people's talents.

The Washington Post

While the aircraft is capable of providing close air support, it uses a radar for targeting so grid coordinates are discouraged when providing target locations.

The Washington Post

The Kremlin's most bitter complaints have been prompted by Bush administration plans to place 10 antimissile interceptors in Poland and a radar for tracking and guidance in the Czech Republic.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The system includes a radar sensor for the bike and a notifier for the rider.

TechCrunch

We also see the player earning a UAV (radar) for getting a three killstreak without dying.

WikiHow

In late 1943, Professor Forrester developed a servomechanism device that would control a radar antenna for intercepting aircraft.

The New York Times - Tech

One was a radar system for police cars that brother Gregory found wanting.

Forbes

In an attempt to create a comprehensible overview of all the results combined, we made a radar graph for each mouse strain (figure 5).

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a radar for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being detected or sensed. For example, "She has "a radar for" spotting insincerity" provides a clear understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a radar for" in every situation where detection is involved. Overuse can weaken the impact. Opt for more literal or descriptive language when appropriate, like "a sharp eye" or "an ability to discern."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a radar for" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as a metaphorical descriptor of someone's ability to detect or sense something effectively. It implies a keen awareness and sensitivity to particular things, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

18%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a radar for" is a common expression used to describe someone's ability to quickly and effectively detect or sense something. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and primarily found in News & Media contexts. While there are more formal alternatives, "a radar for" provides a vivid and easily understood way to highlight someone's heightened perception or skill. When using this phrase, ensure the context makes clear what is being detected. Overuse of the metaphor, however, should be avoided to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a knack for

Focuses on a natural talent or aptitude for something.

a sensitivity to

Emphasizes awareness and responsiveness to something.

an aptitude for

Highlights a natural inclination or suitability for something.

an instinct for

Suggests an inherent, intuitive understanding of something.

a keen eye for

Indicates a sharp and discerning ability to notice something.

a talent for

Highlights a special ability or gift for something.

a nose for

Implies an ability to detect or discover something, often hidden.

an ability to detect

Directly refers to the capacity to find or notice something.

a skill in identifying

Emphasizes proficiency in recognizing or distinguishing something.

a capacity to sense

Indicates the capability to perceive or feel something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a radar for" to describe someone's ability to quickly identify or detect something, for example, "He has "a radar for" identifying promising startups."

What can I say instead of "a radar for"?

You can use alternatives like "a knack for", "a sensitivity to", or "an instinct for" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a radar for" in formal writing?

While "a radar for" is acceptable, it leans towards informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise language such as "an ability to detect" or "a skill in identifying".

What's the difference between "a radar for" and "a talent for"?

"A radar for" implies quick detection or sensing of something, while "a talent for" suggests a natural aptitude or skill in a particular area.