brilliance
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
great intelligence or amazing skill at doing something.
exceptional mental ability, intellectual power, or creative talent.
Simple“The young scientist was famous for her brilliance in solving difficult math problems.”
In context“The critics praised the sheer brilliance of the director's vision, noting how she managed to modernize a classic play without losing its original heart.”
UsageUncountable when referring to the abstract quality of intelligence.
SynonymsAntonymsstupiditydullness - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the quality of being very bright and full of light.
the state or quality of being exceptionally radiant or effulgent.
Simple“The brilliance of the morning sun made it hard to see without sunglasses.”
In context“The diamond was cut to maximize its brilliance, reflecting every beam of light that entered the showroom.”
UsageUncountable in most contexts describing light intensity.
SynonymsAntonymsdarknessdimness - 03 C1 Advanced
the quality of being impressive, beautiful, or grand.
the quality of being magnificent, resplendent, or impressively grand in appearance or execution.
Simple“We were amazed by the brilliance of the royal palace during the festival.”
In context“The historical drama successfully captured the brilliance of the 18th-century court, from the gold-leaf architecture to the intricate silk costumes.”
Teacher's tipIn British English, this sense is often used to describe something that is 'brilliant' (excellent), though it remains a formal or literary choice.
Antonymsordinarinesssimplicity
“South Africa needed patience against Nigeria until a moment of brilliance from Ronnel Donnelly sent Hildah Magaia through to square the ball for Thembi Kgatlana to score in the 56th.”
“Before Toño has time to digest the musician’s brilliance, he learns of his sudden death.”
From brilliant + -ance. Compare French brillance.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.