got a brain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "got a brain" is correct and usable in written English, though it is informal.
You can use it in casual conversations or writing to imply that someone is capable of thinking or reasoning. Example: "If you think that plan will work, you must have got a brain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

TV & Radio

Sport

Business

Opinion

Music

Health

Arts

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

"You've got a brain.

Independent

They've got a brain.

The Guardian - Sport

Experience teaches caution, if you've got a brain.

The Guardian - Sport

He's got a brain the size of a planet".

The Guardian - Business

Which isn't to say I haven't got a brain.

The Guardian

The next thing is, Has he got a brain?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

I've got a brain-damaged son.

The New York Times - Health

Two groups got classroom sessions aimed at improving either their reasoning or their memory skills, and a third group got a brain-training program designed to improve visual processing speed, which declines with age.

Los Angeles Times

Have I gotten a brain transplant?

Yale University

"You may get a brain inflammation and swelling," Dr. Verma said.

The New York Times

You could get a brain ache from the archness overload, but there was lots to respect.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "got a brain" in informal settings where a casual tone is appropriate. In formal contexts, consider more sophisticated alternatives like "possesses intelligence" or "is astute".

Common error

Avoid using "got a brain" in academic or professional documents. It's too colloquial and might undermine the seriousness of your message. Instead, opt for terms like "is intelligent" or "demonstrates strong cognitive abilities".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got a brain" functions as an idiomatic expression used to denote intelligence, common sense, or the ability to think critically. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct, and examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to imply someone is capable or smart.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

TV & Radio

5%

Less common in

Sport

5%

Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "got a brain" is a grammatically correct, though informal, way of indicating intelligence or capability. Ludwig AI shows that it is most frequently used in News & Media contexts. While acceptable in casual settings, more formal alternatives like "is intelligent" or "possesses intelligence" are recommended for professional or academic writing. Use "got a brain" when a casual tone is desired, but be mindful of the audience and context to ensure appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is smart

Simple and commonly used alternative.

is intelligent

Direct and simple alternative.

is sharp

Similar to "astute", but more colloquial.

is quick-witted

Emphasizes the speed and agility of one's thinking.

has intellect

More formal way of indicating intelligence.

possesses intelligence

Formal alternative emphasizing the presence of intelligence.

is astute

Implies keen intelligence and perceptiveness.

is capable

Focuses on ability and competence.

has good sense

Indicates practicality and sound judgment.

is knowledgeable

Highlights the possession of information and understanding.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone has "got a brain"?

Saying someone has "got a brain" means they are intelligent, capable of thinking, or possess common sense.

How can I use "got a brain" in a sentence?

You can use "got a brain" to imply someone is capable of thinking. For example: "If you think that plan will work, you must have "got a brain"."

What can I say instead of "got a brain"?

You can use alternatives like "is intelligent", "is smart", or "has common sense" depending on the context.

Is "got a brain" grammatically correct?

Yes, "got a brain" is grammatically correct in informal English. However, in formal settings, it's better to use alternatives like "possesses intelligence".