intellectual vigour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intellectual vigour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person's mental energy, enthusiasm, and capacity for critical thinking or creativity. Example: "The seminar encouraged participants to engage with the material actively, fostering a sense of intellectual vigour among the attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Daoism and Buddhism had lost their intellectual vigour, and Confucianism became the unchallenged model of scholarship.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His enthusiastic support for Obama's "steadiness" and "intellectual vigour", however, will reassure many Democrats.

The Guardian

His enthusiastic support for Obama's "steadiness" and "intellectual vigour", however, will undoubtedly help to reassure many Democrats.

The Guardian

Set against a Bogotá of endless drizzle and darkness, Vásquez's habitual intellectual vigour is underscored by a stunning emotional intensity.

The Guardian - Books

A judgment has yet to be reached with the firm claiming it was her "intellectual vigour" at fault.

The Guardian

Although this collection is modeled on the works of the 13th-century romantic poet Neẓāmī, it bears Jāmī's unmistakable mark of originality and intellectual vigour.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Calumny was silenced by the weight of his virtues and rancour softened by the amenity of his manners in the vigour of intellectual attainments and in the midst of usefulness.

Wikipedia

His early mastery of fresco is clearly visible in his St. Augustine (1480) in the Church of Ognissanti, in which the saint's cogent energy and vigour express both intellectual power and spiritual devotion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ancient Italic people, any of the peoples diverse in origin, language, traditions, stage of development, and territorial extension who inhabited pre-Roman Italy, a region heavily influenced by neighbouring Greece, with its well-defined national characteristics, expansive vigour, and aesthetic and intellectual maturity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Pursuing imperial vigour and electoral advantage in Africa and the Levant, French leaders and intellectuals such as Bernard-Henri Lévy have only demonstrated, through their fiascos, the urgency of finding a more modest place for themselves in the world.

The Guardian

There was renewed vigour.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intellectual vigour" to describe individuals or movements characterized by innovative thinking and a strong commitment to exploring new ideas. This phrase is particularly effective when highlighting contributions to academic, artistic, or social progress.

Common error

Avoid using "intellectual vigour" in casual conversations or informal writing. While grammatically correct, it can sound stilted if used inappropriately. Opt for simpler, more direct language to ensure your writing remains accessible and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "intellectual vigour" is that of a noun phrase. It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, describing the quality or state of being intellectually energetic and robust. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to characterize individuals, periods, or movements known for their innovative and critical thinking.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectual vigour" is a noun phrase used to describe a high level of mental energy, enthusiasm, and capacity for critical thinking. It's deemed grammatically correct and appears frequently in News & Media and Encyclopedias. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English and effective when describing innovation in academic or social contexts.

While common, it's best suited for formal contexts, avoiding overuse in casual settings where it may sound stilted. Consider alternatives like "mental acuity" or "intellectual energy" for varied expression. As per Ludwig's analysis, understanding its function, purpose, and register ensures effective communication when highlighting intellectual strengths.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectual energy

Stresses the active and dynamic aspect of intellectual capacity.

intellectual vitality

Similar to cognitive vitality, emphasizing liveliness and strength.

mental acuity

Focuses on the sharpness and keenness of the mind.

intellectual dynamism

Highlights the energetic and changing nature of intellectual pursuits.

cognitive vitality

Emphasizes the liveliness and energy of cognitive processes.

mental sharpness

Highlights the quickness and clarity of thought.

mental agility

Focuses on the ability to think quickly and adaptively.

cognitive strength

Implies a robust and resilient intellectual ability.

cognitive prowess

Indicates a high level of skill and expertise in cognitive functions.

brainpower

A more informal way to refer to intellectual capacity.

FAQs

How can I use "intellectual vigour" in a sentence?

You can use "intellectual vigour" to describe a person's capacity for critical thinking and creativity, as in, "The professor's lectures demonstrated the intellectual vigour of his research." It can also describe a period, field, or movement, as in, "The Renaissance was a time of great intellectual vigour".

What are some alternatives to "intellectual vigour"?

Some alternatives include "mental acuity", "intellectual energy", or "cognitive vitality". The best choice will depend on the specific context.

Is "intellectual vigour" formal or informal?

"Intellectual vigour" is generally considered a formal phrase, appropriate for academic or professional writing. In more casual settings, you might choose a simpler term like "brainpower".

What's the difference between "intellectual vigour" and "intellectual vitality"?

While both phrases suggest mental energy and capacity, "intellectual vigour" implies a more active and dynamic quality, whereas "intellectual vitality" emphasizes liveliness and strength. The difference is subtle, but "vigour" suggests a more forceful application of intellect.