strong instinct for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strong instinct for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a powerful or natural inclination towards something, often in the context of skills, talents, or behaviors. Example: "She has a strong instinct for understanding people's emotions, which makes her an excellent counselor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Guyton had a strong instinct for reform, which is best illustrated by his work on the improvement of chemical nomenclature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He followed his own strong instinct for colour, reproducing what he saw with a bold, sure touch (e.g., In the Kitchen, 1898).

Encyclopedia Britannica

An array of progressive causes engaged her strong instinct for social justice, and the pace demanded by a heavy schedule was addictive.

The New Yorker

Drawing district lines has always been a deeply political undertaking, because elected officials in every age cultivate a strong instinct for self-preservation.

The New Yorker

That's why it's essential that Stella tell her own story, with her strong instinct for shaping and making meaning out of the accidents that befall her.

The New Yorker

Austen's achievement depended on her penetrating intelligence, which saw so clearly; and on her strong instinct for the rhythms of story form.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Rubio certainly appears quicker on the court, and has strong instincts for taking the ball away from point guards who are lazy with protection.

The New York Times

But just about all humans have strong instincts for altruism, because our hunter-gatherer ancestors survived by banding together and sacrificing for the clan's good.

The New York Times

Don't let the cult of the customer crowd out your own strong instincts for what you know is best.

Huffington Post

Although a bull rhino will fight another bull rhino for the dubious & sometimes fatal pleasures of the marital bed, forgetfulness is a stronger instinct for them than bellocity.

The New Yorker

I thought I'd build a business that was perfect for me and see if anyone agreed – I had a strong instinct that people want amazing coffee.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's innate ability to understand or handle a situation, "strong instinct for" can be a powerful and concise choice. Use it to emphasize the natural and intuitive nature of their skill.

Common error

Avoid using "strong instinct for" to describe skills that are primarily learned or developed through experience. Reserve it for abilities that seem inherent or intuitive rather than acquired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strong instinct for" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, followed by a preposition. It typically describes a natural or innate ability or inclination towards something. Ludwig AI shows that it's commonly used to characterize inherent skills or understandings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strong instinct for" is a versatile phrase used to describe a natural, inherent aptitude or inclination towards something. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, especially in News & Media. Alternatives like "keen sense of" or "natural talent for" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects an intuitive ability rather than a learned skill. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp instinct for

Replaces "strong" with "sharp", suggesting a more acute and precise intuitive sense.

keen instinct for

Uses "keen" instead of "strong", highlighting the intensity and eagerness of the instinct.

strong intuition for

Substitutes "instinct" with "intuition", emphasizing the cognitive aspect of the innate understanding.

strong impulse for

Replaces "instinct" with "impulse", suggesting a more spontaneous and less reasoned drive.

strong inclination for

Uses "inclination" instead of "instinct", framing it as a predisposition or tendency.

natural talent for

Shifts from instinct to talent, highlighting an inherent aptitude or skill.

strong sense for

Replaces "instinct" with "sense", implying a developed awareness or understanding.

knack for

A more informal alternative suggesting a special skill or aptitude.

gift for

Implies a natural, often exceptional, ability.

flair for

Suggests a distinctive and stylish talent.

FAQs

How can I use "strong instinct for" in a sentence?

You can use "strong instinct for" to describe someone's innate ability or inclination towards something. For example, "She has a "strong instinct for" understanding complex situations."

What are some alternatives to "strong instinct for"?

Alternatives include "keen sense of", "natural talent for", or "strong intuition for", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "strong instinct for" or "strong intuition for"?

Both "strong instinct for" and "strong intuition for" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Instinct" suggests a more innate, unreasoned ability, while "intuition" implies a more cognitive, insightful understanding. Choose the one that best fits the context.

Can "strong instinct for" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "strong instinct for" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe someone's natural ability or inclination.