a sound mind

USAGE SUMMARY

"a sound mind" is a phrase that can be used in written English.
It is most often used to describe someone who is mentally strong and capable of making rational, logical decisions. For example: "Although they had faced many difficult challenges in life, John's sound mind enabled him to make wise decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I am very clear and of a sound mind.

Independent

"A Sound Mind in a Sound Body," it read.

The New Yorker

Hilliard has a sound mind on a not-so-sound body.

The New York Times - Sports

It had to be a settled decision by a sound mind.

The Guardian

Therefore, according to Chinese medical theory, it naturally follows that a sound mind and a healthy body are interdependent on each other.

Handbook of Complementary and Alternative Therapies in Mental Health

Good habits, a sound mind and a virtuous disposition are some of the steps that lead us there.

The New York Times

He was a firm believer in the importance of physical education and emphasized the ideal of a sound mind and a healthy body.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The 10th Satire examines human ambitions and recommends instead seeking "a sound mind in a sound body, and a brave heart".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Parents must remind school authorities that a sound mind has to reside in a sound body; children's physical development should not be sacrificed to academic scores.

The New York Times - Health

The Greek, and especially Athenian, ideal of a sound mind and sound body (often expressed as arete, or "virtue") was cultivated in the gymnasiums, where young men exercised, bathed, socialized, and discussed philosophy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Larry Anderson, a basketball coach, quoted the Book of Proverbs, saying, "If you have a sound mind, you can also have a sound body". Staying active physically is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, Anderson said.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing overall well-being, connect the phrase "a sound mind" with related healthy habits, like exercise, good nutrition, and sufficient sleep, reinforcing the concept of a holistic approach to health.

Common error

Avoid using "a sound mind" too frequently in overly formal or academic writing. While acceptable, it can sometimes sound cliché. Opt for more specific language that precisely describes the desired mental state, such as 'cognitive clarity' or 'rational thinking'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sound mind" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "sound" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "mind". It describes a state of mental well-being, clarity, and rationality, and Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a sound mind" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe mental well-being and rationality. As Ludwig AI states, it effectively conveys the idea of someone being mentally strong and capable of making logical decisions. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. When writing, consider the specific nuance you want to convey and choose alternatives like "a healthy mind" or "a clear mind" for greater precision. Remember to connect the concept with healthy habits to enhance its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a healthy mind

This alternative focuses on the overall well-being of the mind, emphasizing its health rather than its soundness.

a rational mind

This alternative emphasizes the ability to think logically and make decisions based on reason.

a clear mind

This alternative highlights the absence of confusion and the presence of clarity in thinking.

a sane mind

This alternative suggests a state of mental normality and freedom from mental illness.

a stable mind

This alternative stresses the consistency and steadiness of mental processes and emotional state.

a balanced mind

This alternative refers to a mind that is free from extremes and maintains equilibrium.

a level-headed mind

This alternative emphasizes calmness and clear thinking, especially in difficult situations.

a sharp mind

This alternative focuses on the quickness and acuity of mental abilities.

a sound intellect

This alternative replaces "mind" with "intellect", emphasizing cognitive capacity.

a robust mind

This alternative focuses on the strength and resilience of the mind.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sound mind" to describe someone who is mentally stable, rational, and capable of making good decisions. For example, "To succeed in this profession, one needs "a sound mind" and unwavering dedication."

What can I say instead of "a sound mind"?

You can use alternatives like "a healthy mind", "a clear mind", or "a rational mind" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a sound mind" or "a sound brain"?

"A sound mind" is more commonly used to refer to mental well-being and cognitive function. "A sound brain" is less idiomatic but could be used in a literal, medical context to describe a healthy brain.

What is the origin of the phrase "a sound mind in a sound body"?

The phrase "a sound mind in a sound body" (mens sana in corpore sano) originates from the Roman poet Juvenal. It emphasizes the importance of both physical and mental health.