razor-sharp mind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "razor-sharp mind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is very intelligent, quick-witted, or perceptive. Example: "Her razor-sharp mind allowed her to solve complex problems in record time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

She's got guts to go with that razor-sharp mind.

The New York Times

His razor-sharp mind was joined with a compassionate soul.

The New York Times

He was described as possessing a "razor-sharp mind, deep experience, and kind-heartedness".

The Guardian

Mr. Miller, 32, has developed a reputation as a nonstop worker with a razor-sharp mind.

The New York Times

To her galaxy of dear friends worldwide, Eve was especially loved for her loyalty, razor-sharp mind and rollicking wit.

The New York Times

At age 85, Mr. Volcker, the former chairman of the Federal Reserve, speaks softly and displays a razor-sharp mind.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

She was up against some very devious and grown-up bad guys, and the best weapon I could give her was a razor sharp mind.

The Guardian

Developers and financiers, part of his team that travels around the world to find the money, say a razor sharp mind lies behind his often deadpan expression.

Forbes

Why is a woman with a razor sharp mind, and all the tools to create a beautiful business, afraid to share her ideas with an audience?

Huffington Post

An irascible, iconoclastic, funny, and razor-sharp thinker, he spoke his own mind about his contemporaries, his masters, and the art of past and present, in exhibition reviews and articles for literary-art magazines and exhibition catalogues.

Huffington Post

Pattyn was a colorful character, with a razor-sharp brain.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "razor-sharp mind" to describe someone who can quickly understand complex situations and devise effective solutions. This phrase is especially impactful when highlighting problem-solving skills or strategic thinking.

Common error

While "razor-sharp mind" is effective, overuse can diminish its impact. Vary your descriptions by using alternatives such as "acute intellect" or "keen intellect" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "razor-sharp mind" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying the noun "mind". It highlights a particular quality of the mind, emphasizing its keenness, precision, and intellectual acuity. Ludwig indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "razor-sharp mind" is a descriptive and correct way to highlight someone's exceptional intelligence and analytical abilities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for use in written English. While not exceedingly common, its presence in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its validity. To maintain writing variety, consider using synonyms such as "keen intellect" or "acute intellect". The phrase's neutral register makes it versatile across various writing contexts, though overuse should be avoided to preserve its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keen intellect

Uses "keen" in place of "razor-sharp", suggesting eagerness and enthusiasm alongside intelligence.

acute intellect

Substitutes "razor-sharp" with "acute", suggesting a keenness and perceptiveness of intellect.

astute mind

Replaces "razor-sharp" with "astute", highlighting the ability to accurately assess situations and people.

brilliant intellect

Replaces "mind" with "intellect" and "razor-sharp" with the more general "brilliant", focusing on overall intelligence.

penetrating intellect

Suggests a deep understanding and the ability to see beyond superficial aspects.

incisive mind

Emphasizes the ability to analyze and understand complex issues clearly and directly.

perceptive mind

Focuses on the ability to understand and interpret subtle details and nuances.

sharp wit

Focuses on the quickness and cleverness of the mind, rather than its general intelligence.

quick mind

Highlights the speed and agility of thought processes.

highly intelligent

A more straightforward and general description of high intelligence, lacking the metaphorical sharpness.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "razor-sharp mind" in a sentence?

Use "razor-sharp mind" to emphasize someone's exceptional intelligence, quick thinking, and analytical abilities. For example, "Her razor-sharp mind allowed her to quickly identify the root cause of the problem".

What are some alternatives to "razor-sharp mind"?

You can use alternatives such as "brilliant intellect", "acute intellect", or "keen intellect" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "razor-sharp mind" in formal writing?

Yes, "razor-sharp mind" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing someone's intellectual capabilities in a professional or academic context. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall style of the piece.

What's the difference between "razor-sharp mind" and "sharp mind"?

"Razor-sharp mind" implies a higher degree of intelligence and analytical ability compared to simply a "sharp mind". The addition of "razor" emphasizes the keenness and precision of the intellect.