dense cranium

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dense cranium" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing the physical characteristics of a skull or metaphorically to describe someone perceived as having a thick or stubborn mindset. Example: "The archaeologist noted the dense cranium of the ancient skull, indicating a robust individual."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thus, it is tempting to speculate that one major advantage in the cranium may be the denser vascular network of skull bones, which is especially interesting in the context that, beyond an absent osteochondral commitment, a lower angiogenic signature was noted for ASC (Refs 42, 59, 66, 148) and orthotopic bone formation by ACS can be triggered by co-transplantation of endothelial cells (Ref. 127).

Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine

The cranium was too small and the heartbeat too slow.

The New York Times

Dense tissue bunches around the edges of a lesion, which causes a condition on the bones of the cranium that Hassett describes as resembling "chewed gum that's hardened on a sidewalk".

The Guardian - Books

"Cranium plays on that".

The New York Times

That cranium has an aura.

The Guardian

The SH sample includes Cranium 6, Cranium 9, Cranium 16 and the isolated partial face AT-1100.

Nature

Only upper cranium, and femur were found.

Columbia University

The SH sample consists of: AT-5899, a maxilla, part of Cranium 16; AT-1100; Cranium 9 and Cranium 6.

Nature

A baby was born without a cranium.

The Washington Post

The sound goes straight to your cranium.

The New York Times

But it lingers in the cranium.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If you're using "dense cranium" metaphorically, consider the audience and whether a more common phrase like "thick-headed" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "dense cranium" when a simpler, more direct term like "stubborn" or "unyielding" would be clearer and more effective in conveying a metaphorical meaning. Ensure the context supports the imagery of a physical skull.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dense cranium" functions primarily as a descriptive term, combining the adjective "dense" to modify the noun "cranium". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. The examples suggest its use in describing physical characteristics.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "dense cranium" is grammatically sound but rare, with potential use in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. When used literally, it describes a skull's physical density, while metaphorically, it suggests inflexibility or resistance to new ideas. Due to its relative infrequency, it's important to consider the audience and context when using this phrase, ensuring clear and effective communication. Alternatives like "thick skull" or "stubborn" may be more appropriate in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Thick skull

This alternative is a more informal and common way to describe a dense or robust skull.

Solid cranium

This alternative uses a different adjective to convey the strength and density of the cranium.

Compact skull

This alternative highlights the compact nature of the skull structure.

Heavily ossified cranium

This alternative specifies the increased bone density of the skull.

Robust cranial structure

This alternative emphasizes the strength and structural integrity of the skull.

Impermeable cranium

This alternative suggests that there is a barrier, that the cranium cannot be penetrated.

Inflexible cranium

This alternative suggests that the cranium is not flexible or adaptable.

Hardened skull

This alternative focuses on the increased hardness of the skull bone.

Impenetrable skull

This alternative emphasizes the difficulty of penetrating or damaging the skull.

Durable cranial bone

This alternative describes the general durability and long-lasting characteristics of the cranium bone.

FAQs

What does "dense cranium" mean?

The phrase "dense cranium" refers literally to a skull with high bone density. Metaphorically, it can describe someone perceived as resistant to new ideas. Consider the context when interpreting its meaning.

How can I use "dense cranium" in a sentence?

You might say, "The archaeologist noted the "dense cranium" of the ancient skull, suggesting a robust individual." Alternatively, metaphorically, "His "dense cranium" prevented him from understanding the nuanced argument."

What are some alternatives to "dense cranium"?

Synonyms for the literal meaning include "thick skull" or "solid cranium". For the metaphorical meaning, consider "stubborn", "obstinate", or "unyielding".

Is "dense cranium" a common phrase?

The phrase "dense cranium" is not as common as alternatives like "thick skull". Its frequency depends on the specific context, being more likely in scientific or technical discussions.