a substantial intellect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial intellect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who possesses a significant level of intelligence or mental capacity. Example: "Her ability to solve complex problems demonstrates that she has a substantial intellect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And the tragic death of Paula Yates, in September 2000, gave us pause to recognise that someone derided as an icon of all that was vacuous and silly about modern celebrity was masking a substantial intellect.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mr. Greenspan should use his substantial intellect and unsurpassed knowledge of government to ascertain and explain exactly how he and other officials missed the boat.

The New York Times

Averroes instead focuses on active intellect as a "form for us", in the sense, says Taylor, of "intrinsically operating within us" (Taylor 2005, 29)—though not in the sense of suggesting that there is either an active intellect or a material intellect for each person, and also while maintaining that active and material intellect are themselves completely separate intellects.

SEP

When identifying the active intellect with God as the first cause of all that exists and can be known, Zabarella has clearly in his mind that the active intellect does no longer play a substantial role in this naturalistic philosophy of nature (Kessler 2011, pp. 56 57).

SEP

From this viewpoint, according to which the passive intellect has to be considered a substantial form, it is evident that it has a beginning in time, but certainly not an end, and that, like any other material substantial form, it is multiplied according to the multiplication of bodies (In Metaph., book XII, tr. 1, chap. 3, fol. 427ra b).

SEP

He is a substantial, mustached man, whose initial gruffness belies a sprightly intellect.

The New Yorker

Nevertheless, the formation of a substantial amount of knowledge, or in Farabian terms, a strong acquired intellect, is that which forms and enriches us, creating a substance that in its immateriality resembles the Agent Intellect.

SEP

We made a substantial bid.

The Guardian

This is a substantial grievance.

The Economist

A substantial and satisfying volume.

Independent

This is a substantial upgrade".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's intellectual capacity, consider the specific qualities you want to emphasize. Using "a substantial intellect" suggests a significant and well-developed intelligence, suitable for formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial intellect" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase is formal and may sound pretentious or out of place in a relaxed setting. Opt for simpler alternatives like "very smart" or "bright" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial intellect" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to characterize an individual possessing noteworthy intellectual capability. The adjective "substantial" modifies "intellect", indicating a considerable degree of mental capacity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial intellect" is a descriptive phrase used to denote a significant level of intelligence or mental capacity. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and acceptable, although somewhat formal. It is most commonly found in news and media, and academic contexts. Alternatives include "considerable intelligence" and "remarkable mind", each offering a slightly different nuance. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable intelligence

Replaces "intellect" with "intelligence" and "substantial" with "considerable", focusing on the capacity for understanding.

remarkable mind

Uses "mind" instead of "intellect" and "remarkable" instead of "substantial", highlighting the exceptional nature of the intellect.

profound intellect

Emphasizes the depth and insight of the intellect by using "profound" instead of "substantial".

gifted mind

Highlights the natural talent associated with the intellect, replacing "substantial" with "gifted".

formidable intellect

Suggests an intellect that is powerful and impressive, using "formidable" in place of "substantial".

astute mind

Focuses on the sharpness and shrewdness of the intellect, replacing "substantial" with "astute".

brilliant mind

Uses "brilliant" to convey the exceptional quality of the intellect, offering a more emphatic alternative to "substantial".

high level of intelligence

A more descriptive alternative, focusing on the measured degree of intelligence rather than a qualitative adjective.

intellectual prowess

Replaces the adjective-noun construction with a noun phrase indicating exceptional intellectual skill or ability.

notable cognitive ability

Focuses on the cognitive capabilities, using a more technical and descriptive tone.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial intellect" to describe someone who has a significant level of intelligence or mental capacity. For example: "Her ability to solve complex problems demonstrates that she has "a substantial intellect".

What are some alternatives to "a substantial intellect"?

You can use alternatives like "considerable intelligence", "remarkable mind", or "profound intellect" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a substantial intellect" in casual conversation?

No, "a substantial intellect" is a formal phrase and is more suitable for formal writing or professional contexts. In casual conversation, consider using simpler alternatives like "very smart" or "bright".

What is the difference between "a substantial intellect" and "a brilliant mind"?

"A substantial intellect" indicates a significant and well-developed intelligence, while "a brilliant mind" emphasizes exceptional intelligence and quickness of thought. The choice depends on the specific qualities you want to highlight.