formidable intellect

USAGE SUMMARY

"formidable intellect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express admiration or awe for someone's intelligence. For example, you might say, "She has a formidable intellect and can outthink almost anyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Morozov's formidable intellect makes this a noteworthy book.

The New York Times - Books

With his formidable intellect went a legendary absent-mindedness.

The Guardian

Mr. Black is a formidable intellect, even if critics deem his research superior to his writing.

The New York Times

On May 26th, he announced her nomination, citing her "formidable intellect" and her "inspiring life's journey".

The New Yorker

He had a formidable intellect, with a double first from Balliol.

The Guardian

And in August 2004 Carrier turned his formidable intellect, and sense of purpose, toward Flew.

The New York Times - Magazine

Lady Morris describes Lord Adonis as "very bright, and very personable - he has a formidable intellect.

The Guardian

Her formidable intellect played a great part in shaping her journalism.

The Guardian

What helped complete his change of heart were Mr. Hume's formidable intellect, patience and persuasive skills.

The New York Times

We remember with affection his insight, formidable intellect, breadth of knowledge and wit.

The New York Times

He planned his effects with all the resources of his supple and formidable intellect.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "formidable intellect" when you want to convey a sense of awe and respect for someone's high level of intelligence and mental capabilities. It's particularly effective in formal writing or when describing someone who has achieved significant intellectual accomplishments.

Common error

While "formidable intellect" is a powerful phrase, avoid using it in casual conversations or informal writing. Overusing it can sound pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "very smart" or "highly intelligent" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formidable intellect" primarily functions as a descriptive noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It modifies a noun, indicating a quality or attribute of that noun, specifically describing the power and impact of someone's intelligence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "formidable intellect" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe someone possessing exceptional intelligence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for formal and neutral registers, conveying admiration and respect. While alternatives like "exceptional intelligence" or "remarkable intelligence" exist, "formidable intellect" emphasizes the power and impact of one's intelligence. It is particularly common in news media and academic contexts, though less appropriate in casual settings. When aiming to express awe and reverence for someone's mental prowess, this phrase serves as a potent and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exceptional intelligence

Replaces "formidable" with "exceptional", emphasizing the rarity and superiority of the intellect.

remarkable intelligence

Uses "remarkable" instead of "formidable", highlighting the noticeable and outstanding quality of the intellect.

profound intellect

Substitutes "formidable" with "profound", suggesting a deep and insightful understanding.

outstanding intellectual capacity

Rephrases "intellect" as "intellectual capacity" and "formidable" as "outstanding", focusing on the potential for intellectual achievement.

high level of intelligence

Uses a more descriptive phrase, indicating a superior degree of intelligence.

brilliant mind

Replaces "intellect" with "mind" and "formidable" with "brilliant", emphasizing the sharpness and clarity of thought.

superior mental acuity

Substitutes "intellect" with "mental acuity" and "formidable" with "superior", highlighting the quickness and keenness of the mind.

astute mind

Uses "astute" instead of "formidable", suggesting a shrewd and perceptive intellect.

sharp intellect

Replaces "formidable" with "sharp", emphasizing the keenness and quickness of the intellect.

powerful intellect

Uses "powerful" instead of "formidable", emphasizing the strength and influence of the intellect.

FAQs

How can I use "formidable intellect" in a sentence?

You can use "formidable intellect" to describe someone with exceptional intelligence and mental capacity. For example: "The professor was known for his "formidable intellect" and groundbreaking research."

What are some alternatives to "formidable intellect"?

Alternatives include "exceptional intelligence", "remarkable intelligence", or "profound intellect". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "formidable intellect" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "formidable intellect" is more suited for formal writing or when discussing someone's significant intellectual achievements. In everyday conversation, simpler phrases like "very smart" or "highly intelligent" are often more appropriate.

What distinguishes "formidable intellect" from "high intelligence"?

"Formidable intellect" suggests not only a high level of intelligence but also a sense of power, respect, and possibly even awe. "High intelligence" is a more neutral and general term, while "formidable intellect" implies that the intelligence is impressive or even intimidating.