an acute intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

"an acute intelligence" is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an individual who is particularly skilled at problem solving or thinking logically. For example, "The CEO of the company possessed an acute intelligence that enabled him to achieve success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Arts

He attributes to Orwell, the middle child of Anglo-Indian parents, an "acute intelligence" that "made him detached, and critical" of his conventional family.

The New York Times - Books

Possessed of an acute intelligence, she was gentle, self-effacing and warm, retaining her youthful enthusiasm and sense of fun throughout her long life.

The Guardian

With an acute intelligence plus the dramatic vocabulary to pull off any part she is handed — for instance, Mary, the maid, in Ionesco's "The Bald Soprano" earlier this season — Ms. Pierce has made many new fans.

The New York Times

But as Mr. Reid imbued standards with an acute intelligence and a passion guided by an unerring instinct for where to draw the line, the stalest subject in the world became refreshed.

The New York Times - Arts

His Henry, commanding the stage in the Shakespeare Theater of New Jersey's season opener, has much of the Branagh spirit yet makes his own mark; he is dashingly handsome, with an acute intelligence, a good measure of bravado, a self-deprecating wit and a capacity for genuine tenderness.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It usually exhibits an acute news sense.

The Guardian

And his blustery, blubbery charm, backed as it is by a sly and acute intelligence, is hard to resist.

The New York Times

She was a woman of acute intelligence and passionate convictions, devoted to progressive and humanitarian causes and the wellbeing of her family and loving circle of friends and students.

The New York Times

A template for love based on a brilliant outspoken female sparring with a man of less acute intelligence was likely to yield an anguished romantic career.

The New York Times - Books

The qualities Ms. Morton brought to that Tony-nominated performance — a husky, resonant voice, a forceful presence and acute intelligence — are all fittingly on display in her turn as Mr. Albee's relentless antagonist Martha, who surely donated an aesthetic chromosome or two to Mr. Letts's wily Violet.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's intelligence, consider the context. Use "an acute intelligence" to convey not just smarts, but also a quickness and depth of understanding. For instance, 'Her success in negotiations was due to her acute intelligence and understanding of human psychology.'

Common error

While appropriate in many settings, excessive use of "an acute intelligence" in very formal or scientific writing can sound repetitive. Vary your descriptions with phrases like "a sharp intellect" or "exceptional cognitive ability" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an acute intelligence" primarily functions as a descriptive attribute, highlighting a specific quality of a person or entity. It is typically used to emphasize not just the presence of intelligence but also its keenness, sharpness, and depth. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Arts

20%

Books

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an acute intelligence" is a phrase used to describe someone possessing a sharp and profound understanding. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. Although its frequency is classified as uncommon, it frequently appears in News & Media, Arts, and Books. To diversify your writing, consider alternatives such as "a sharp intellect" or "a brilliant mind". Remember to use it thoughtfully in formal contexts to prevent overuse and maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sharp intellect

Replaces "acute intelligence" with synonyms that emphasize the keenness of the mind.

a brilliant mind

Uses "brilliant" to highlight exceptional intellectual capability.

a keen intellect

Emphasizes the sharpness and eagerness of the intellect.

a perceptive understanding

Focuses on the depth and accuracy of comprehension.

a profound intellect

Highlights the depth and significance of intellectual thought.

remarkable cognitive ability

Replaces "intelligence" with a broader term encompassing various mental processes.

exceptional mental acuity

Emphasizes the sharpness and quickness of mental processes.

high intellectual capacity

Focuses on the potential and ability for intellectual achievement.

notable cognitive prowess

Highlights exceptional skill and expertise in cognitive functions.

a discerning mind

Emphasizes the ability to make fine distinctions and judgments.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an acute intelligence" in a sentence?

Use "an acute intelligence" to describe someone who demonstrates a high level of insight and understanding, such as, "The detective's "acute intelligence" allowed her to solve the complex case quickly".

What are some alternatives to "an acute intelligence"?

Alternatives include "sharp intellect", "brilliant mind", or "keen intellect", each offering a slightly different nuance in describing intellectual capability.

Is it better to say "acute intelligence" or "high intelligence"?

"Acute intelligence" suggests not only high intelligence but also a sharpness and quickness of understanding, whereas "high intelligence" simply denotes a high level of intellectual ability. The best choice depends on the specific context you're describing.

What distinguishes "an acute intelligence" from "a discerning mind"?

"An acute intelligence" emphasizes the speed and depth of understanding, while "a discerning mind" focuses on the ability to make fine distinctions and judgments. They both indicate high cognitive function but highlight different aspects.