acute intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

'acute intelligence' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone as being very smart and quick-thinking. For example, you could say: "She displayed an acute intelligence when she solved the difficult math problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

He combined acute intelligence with deep resilience.

The Times

The actors' physical vigor is matched by acute intelligence.

The New York Times

The show exhibits an acute intelligence and wry self-possession.

The New York Times - Arts

It combined absolute loyalty, acute intelligence and clear social commitment with good humour, courtesy and moderation.

The Guardian

Somewhat grudgingly, however, they acknowledged his literary gifts and acute intelligence.

Britannica

"His acute intelligence enabled him to gauge what his audiences wanted," Hastings writes, and "his expert craftsmanship delivered it".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Throughout this wonderful book, Pratt demonstrates acute descriptive powers and a piercing intelligence.

The Guardian - Books

The play's author, please remember, is Mr. Frayn, who brings an acute scholarly intelligence to anything he touches.

The New York Times

When performing, she often gives the sense that she is scouring the lyrics with an acute critical intelligence.

The New York Times - Arts

In his more reflective moments Mr. Finkelstein demonstrates an acute analytical intelligence and even an inkling of humor.

The New York Times

Works that he made in New York and, at the time, showed only privately exalt sex, drugs, and rock and roll delirium aplenty, yet managed with acute aesthetic intelligence.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone with "acute intelligence", provide specific examples of their intellectual capabilities to add weight to your assessment. For example, instead of simply stating that a character possesses "acute intelligence", describe how they quickly solved a complex problem or came up with an innovative solution.

Common error

Don't assume "acute intelligence" only applies to academic or scholarly pursuits. The phrase can also describe someone's street smarts, emotional intelligence, or practical problem-solving skills. It's about intellectual sharpness in any domain, not just formal education.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acute intelligence" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "acute" modifies the noun "intelligence". It serves to describe a high degree of mental sharpness or intellectual capacity. As Ludwig AI states, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "acute intelligence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe someone with a sharp, quick, and perceptive intellect. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate in a variety of contexts. Its usage spans from formal writing, as found in encyclopedias, to news and media, showcasing its versatility. When using the phrase, consider providing specific examples to support your assessment of someone's intellectual abilities. While often associated with academic prowess, "acute intelligence" encompasses a broader range of intellectual capabilities, including practical problem-solving and emotional intelligence. Alternatives such as "sharp intellect" or "astute intellect" can also be considered depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

razor-sharp intellect

Stresses the extreme sharpness and precision of someone's intelligence.

astute intellect

Emphasizes the shrewdness and perceptiveness of someone's intelligence.

sharp intellect

Highlights the quickness and precision of one's mind.

remarkable mental acuity

Stresses the clarity and sharpness of thought processes.

brilliant mind

Highlights the exceptional quality and creativity of someone's thinking.

profound intellect

Emphasizes the depth and complexity of someone's intelligence.

exceptional cognitive ability

Focuses on the superior nature of someone's mental capabilities.

high level of cognitive function

A more technical way of referring to someone's mental ability.

exceptional reasoning

Highlights the capacity for logical and sound thinking.

demonstrated intellectual capacity

Refers to proven capabilities in learning, problem-solving, and reasoning.

FAQs

How to use "acute intelligence" in a sentence?

You can use "acute intelligence" to describe someone's ability to quickly understand complex situations or solve problems. For example, "Her "acute intelligence" allowed her to navigate the intricate political landscape with ease."

What can I say instead of "acute intelligence"?

You can use alternatives like "sharp intellect", "astute intellect", or "exceptional reasoning" depending on the context.

Is "acute intelligence" formal or informal?

"Acute intelligence" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it leans towards a more sophisticated vocabulary. In very casual settings, simpler terms like "very smart" or "quick-witted" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "acute intelligence" and "high IQ"?

"Acute intelligence" describes a visible, often demonstrated ability to think sharply and solve problems effectively, whereas "high IQ" refers to a score on an intelligence test. While a high IQ might indicate potential, "acute intelligence" is about how that potential is manifested in practical situations.