an apt pupil

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an apt pupil" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a student who is quick to learn or has a natural ability for a particular subject or skill. Example: "She was an apt pupil, mastering the violin in just a few months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

He was an apt pupil in the guerrilla tactics that were so successfully exploited against the overstretched British lines of communication.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sanchez hopes to have a career as long (19 seasons) and as productive as Brunell, who considers him an apt pupil.

The New York Times - Sports

But there's more to Walliams's work - and to his extraordinary success - than simply being an apt pupil of a past master.

The Guardian - Books

The example of Balanchine is continually apparent — as is some of Mr. Andersen's Danish heritage — and the creativity of Mr. Andersen, an apt pupil, emerges in bright details rather than bold or breathtaking new ideas.

The New York Times - Arts

He proved, however, an apt pupil of the city's rampant strains of anti-Semitism, which exploited popular resentment of the wealthy Jewish bourgeoisie that had arisen under Franz Josef I, the conservative but clement — and, effectively, the last — Hapsburg emperor.

The New Yorker

Portraying himself as an apt pupil at the master's feet, Hoxha thus establishes continuity between Stalin's USSR and his own rule, thus "proving" that his particular sectarian offshoot of communism is the "true" heir to the Revolution, even if it is entirely without influence on world affairs.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Nannerl herself was an extremely apt pupil, no less quick to learn than her brother, and was playing the keyboard with striking virtuosity by the time she was eleven.

Wikipedia

Born in 1780, he was a blazingly apt pupil and assistant of Jacques-Louis David.

The New Yorker

At 16 he landed an apprenticeship with a Savile Row tailoring firm that catered to the British royal family, and he was a more than apt pupil.

The New York Times - Arts

Victor Valdovinos told The Atlantic that Singer molested him while he was an extra on Singer's movie "Apt Pupil" in 1997.

Huffington Post

He instead pursued Apt Pupil: "It was a very dark subject matter, and it was something that came from passion".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an apt pupil" to describe someone who not only learns quickly but also demonstrates a natural inclination or talent for the subject matter. Consider the context to determine if a more specific term like "gifted student" or "quick learner" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "an apt pupil" when you simply mean someone is working hard or being diligent. The phrase implies an inherent ability, not just effort. For a student who works hard, consider "a dedicated student" or "a conscientious learner" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an apt pupil" functions as a noun phrase, where 'apt' modifies 'pupil'. It describes a person who learns quickly and easily, demonstrating a natural talent or inclination for a subject. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an apt pupil" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe someone who learns quickly and demonstrates a natural talent. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and widely applicable in various contexts. While most prevalent in News & Media, Encyclopaedia, and Wiki sources, its usage remains relatively neutral. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "a quick learner", "a talented learner", or "a gifted student" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use "an apt pupil" when referring to inherent abilities, not just diligent effort. The phrase carries an implication of natural aptitude and is best suited for contexts where this quality is being highlighted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a quick learner

Focuses on the speed of learning, rather than inherent aptitude.

a sharp pupil

Emphasizes quickness of understanding.

a gifted student

Emphasizes natural talent and ability.

a talented learner

Highlights skill and aptitude combined.

an astute student

Suggests keen intelligence and discernment.

a promising student

Indicates potential for future success.

a bright spark

Informal, emphasizing intelligence and enthusiasm.

a receptive learner

Highlights openness to new ideas and information.

a diligent student

Emphasizes hard work and dedication rather than natural aptitude.

an able student

A more general term for competence.

FAQs

How can I use "an apt pupil" in a sentence?

"An apt pupil" is used to describe someone who learns quickly and effectively. For example, "She was "an apt pupil", mastering complex theories with ease."

What are some alternatives to "an apt pupil"?

Alternatives include "a quick learner", "a gifted student", or "a talented learner". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "an apt pupil" formal or informal?

"An apt pupil" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal settings might prefer alternatives like "a promising student".

What's the difference between "an apt pupil" and "a diligent student"?

"An apt pupil" implies a natural ability and quick understanding, while "a diligent student" emphasizes hard work and dedication. A student can be both, but the phrases highlight different qualities.