sheer intensity

USAGE SUMMARY

'sheer intensity' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
'Sheer' is an adjective which means 'pure' or 'utter', and 'intensity' means 'the strength or degree of something'. It can be used to describe strong feelings or qualities. For example: The sheer intensity of her passion for soccer was palpable.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Music

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The sheer intensity of Celtic could not be contained.

Independent

A greater effect can often be created at a lower volume through sheer intensity and focus.

The New York Times - Arts

What's really striking is the sheer intensity of the drama and the performances.

The Guardian - Film

He has a gravitas that is born not just of longevity and status but sheer intensity.

The Guardian - Music

However, the sheer intensity of the emotions invested in the war proved to be a double-edged sword.

The Guardian - Books

But the sheer intensity and bravado of his vision makes this collection succeed more often than not.

The New York Times - Books

The sheer intensity with which they utilise space puts both commercial developers and hipster market halls to shame.

The Guardian

Favourite opera I am a huge fan of Janáček's operas - the drama, musicality and sheer intensity of the experience.

The Guardian - Music

I don't think there will be too much in the future that matches it for sheer intensity".

The Guardian - Sport

The sheer intensity of the beams made it possible for him to study such events at far lower voltages than had been required before.

The New York Times

Perhaps I was simply swept away by the sheer intensity of Weisgall's opera, with its lush orchestration and intricate ensembles and choral scenes.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sheer intensity" to emphasize the degree or force of a feeling, action, or phenomenon. It is especially effective when highlighting an overwhelming or exceptional quality.

Common error

Avoid using "sheer intensity" in situations where the level of intensity is not genuinely remarkable or significant. Overusing it can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sheer intensity" functions primarily as a means to intensify a noun, highlighting the magnitude or degree to which something possesses a particular quality. It emphasizes that the intensity is not just present, but is remarkable or overwhelming. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Music

10%

Sport

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sheer intensity" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to emphasize the remarkable degree of a characteristic, emotion, or event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, making it suitable for diverse contexts. As demonstrated by Ludwig examples, it appears predominantly in news and media, highlighting overwhelming aspects of events, performances, or phenomena. While it's essential to avoid overuse in weak contexts, harnessing "sheer intensity" effectively elevates writing by underscoring the significance and impact of described subjects. Its synonyms range from "extreme intensity" to "unadulterated intensity", offering alternatives tailored to specific nuances and scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unadulterated intensity

Emphasizes the purity and unmixed nature of the intensity.

pure intensity

Highlights the unmixed and genuine nature of the intensity.

utter intensity

Stresses the completeness and totality of the intensity.

complete intensity

Highlights the exhaustive or all-encompassing nature of the intensity.

absolute intensity

Emphasizes that the intensity is without any limitations or qualifications.

extreme intensity

Indicates a very high degree of intensity.

remarkable intensity

Highlights the unusual and noteworthy degree of intensity.

pronounced intensity

Stresses that the intensity is very noticeable and distinct.

fierce intensity

Indicates a forceful and passionate degree of intensity.

undiluted intensity

Emphasizes the intensity is not weakened or diminished.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "sheer intensity" in a sentence?

Use "sheer intensity" to emphasize the overwhelming nature of something, such as emotions, efforts, or physical phenomena. For example: "The "sheer intensity" of the performance left the audience breathless."

What are some alternatives to "sheer intensity"?

You can use alternatives such as "extreme intensity", "utter intensity", or "remarkable intensity" to convey a similar meaning, depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "sheer intensity" and "simple intensity"?

"Sheer intensity" implies a remarkable or overwhelming degree of intensity. "Simple intensity" suggests intensity that is straightforward or uncomplicated, lacking the emphasis on magnitude.

When is it appropriate to use "sheer intensity" in writing?

It's appropriate when describing something with a high degree of force, emotion, or impact. It is often used in news reporting, music reviews, and sports commentary to highlight exceptional qualities.