an intense game

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "an intense game" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase in sentences that describe a situation that requires concentration and focus. Example: The soccer match was an intense game that required every player to give it their all.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

The mechanisms of the language and all the rigorous ordered logic and chaos over an intense game invented by children has all the fury and intensity of anything else you could ask for, delivered in something like a 60-page onslaught of continuously disrupted analytical mathlike language that fits exactly nowhere and that is exactly why it fits.

Vice

"This was an intense game," Alderson said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It was an intense game," Bochy said.

The New York Times

Newcastle was an intense game on the physical challenge.

Independent

"Oh man, it was such an intense game.

The Guardian - Sport

"Lacrosse is an intense game, and it's exciting," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Remarkably, at the end of an astonishingly intense game only a single point separated the two (193 192), Verdasco hitting a remarkable 93 winners: "I was taking more risks than him, and being more aggressive".

The Guardian - Sport

For example, if it's been a while since you've eaten and you're in the middle of a long, intense game, a snack could assist.

Columbia University

Walters: It was an incredibly intense game, with two great teams going at it.

Princeton University

Scott decided an emotional, intense game by driving past Michigan State forward Dwayne Stephens across the lane and hitting a hanging seven-foot shot with seven seconds left in overtime.

Los Angeles Times

Arsène Wenger enjoyed what he described as a "convincing win in a very intense game" and the Arsenal manager will now attempt to strengthen his squad before the closure of the transfer window on Monday night.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an intense game" to describe situations, not just in sports, but also in other competitive or high-pressure scenarios where focus and determination are key, such as business negotiations or academic competitions.

Common error

Avoid using "an intense game" to describe casual or low-stakes activities. This can dilute the impact of the phrase and make your writing sound exaggerated or insincere. Instead, reserve it for situations where the intensity is genuinely palpable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an intense game" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "intense" modifies the noun "game", describing the nature or quality of the game. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is considered correct in written English and suggests concentration and focus.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an intense game" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression, particularly within News & Media. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable in written English. It's used to describe situations characterized by high levels of focus, competition, or excitement. While versatile, it's best reserved for truly high-stakes scenarios to avoid diluting its impact. Alternatives like "a high-stakes game" or "a thrilling game" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a high-stakes game

Emphasizes the importance of the outcome and potential consequences.

a closely contested game

Highlights the evenness of the competition and the narrow margins.

a thrilling game

Focuses on the excitement and suspense of the game.

a competitive game

Stresses the rivalry and desire to win.

a nail-biting game

Highlights the anxiety and suspense experienced by spectators.

a hard-fought game

Emphasizes the effort and determination displayed by the participants.

a demanding game

Focuses on the physical and mental exertion required.

a gripping game

Highlights the game's ability to hold one's attention.

a heated game

Suggests a high level of emotion and intensity.

a challenging game

Focuses on the difficulty and obstacles faced.

FAQs

How can I use "an intense game" in a sentence?

You can use "an intense game" to describe any situation marked by high levels of competition, focus, or excitement. For example, "The chess tournament culminated in an intense game between the two finalists."

What are some alternatives to "an intense game"?

Alternatives include "a high-stakes game", "a closely contested game", or "a thrilling game", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it grammatically correct to say "an intense game"?

Yes, the phrase "an intense game" is grammatically correct. "Intense" is an adjective that properly modifies the noun "game".

What's the difference between "an intense game" and "a casual game"?

"An intense game" suggests a serious, competitive, or high-pressure situation, while "a casual game" implies a relaxed and less competitive setting.