great mind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "great mind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who is exceptionally intelligent or creative, often in the context of collaboration or shared ideas. Example: "Two great minds coming together can lead to innovative solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A great mind.

The New York Times

Architect, humorist, lover of ideas, great mind.

The New York Times

He has a great mind, and a great constitution".

Independent

"A great mind and a great mother can overcome location.

The New York Times - Arts

She saw herself as responsible for cultivating a great mind.

The New York Times - Books

She's got a great mind for making the right decisions".

The New York Times - Sports

"He's got a great mind for the game.

The New York Times - Sports

She has speed, class, stamina, a great mind.

The Guardian - Sport

"He's very pacey and has a great mind.

The Guardian - Sport

A truly great mind, brilliant writer and inspirational teacher.

The New York Times

He has a great mind for it, a great eye for it.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "great mind" to describe someone with exceptional intellectual capabilities, innovative thinking, or significant contributions to a field.

Common error

Avoid using "great mind" in casual or overly informal settings, as it can sound pretentious or insincere. Opt for simpler terms like "smart" or "clever" in less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "great mind" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object complement, attributing a quality of exceptional intelligence or intellect to a person or entity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "great mind" is a noun phrase used to describe individuals possessing exceptional intelligence or intellectual capabilities. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it is most effective in formal or neutral settings when genuinely recognizing significant intellectual achievement. Consider alternatives like "brilliant intellect" or "exceptional thinker" to tailor the language to the specific context. When in doubt, remember to use "great mind" to describe someone with exceptional intellectual capabilities, innovative thinking, or significant contributions to a field, and avoid overusing it in casual or informal settings. The phrase carries a weight of respect, so ensure the situation warrants such a commendation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brilliant intellect

Emphasizes intellectual capacity and sharpness.

exceptional thinker

Highlights the ability to think critically and creatively.

remarkable intellect

Stresses the unusual and noteworthy nature of the intellect.

gifted mind

Implies a natural talent or innate ability.

profound intellect

Suggests depth and insight in thinking.

astute thinker

Focuses on the ability to understand situations and people quickly and accurately.

genius

Refers to an exceptional intellectual or creative power.

intelligent mind

A more direct synonym, focusing on intelligence.

sharp mind

Highlights mental acuity and quickness.

knowledgeable person

Stresses the breadth and depth of acquired knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "great mind" in a sentence?

You can use "great mind" to describe someone with exceptional intellectual capabilities or someone who has made significant contributions to a field. For example, "She was recognized as a "great mind" in the field of astrophysics".

What are some alternatives to "great mind"?

Alternatives include "brilliant intellect", "exceptional thinker", or "remarkable intellect". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "great mind" in a formal setting?

Yes, "great mind" is appropriate in formal settings when used to genuinely recognize someone's exceptional intellectual abilities or contributions. However, ensure the context warrants such a commendation.

What's the difference between "great mind" and "good thinker"?

"Great mind" implies exceptional intellectual capacity and often suggests significant contributions or influence in a field. "Good thinker" is a more general term that simply indicates someone who is thoughtful and intelligent but does not necessarily possess the same level of exceptional ability or impact.