ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ingenuity

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //ˌɪndʒəˈnuəˌti// UK //ˌɪndʒɪnjˈuːɪtˌi// in·ge·nu·ity Archaic

n. the ability to solve problems in a clever or creative way. You use this when someone thinks of a smart new idea to fix a tricky situation.

n. the quality of being clever, original, and inventive, especially when applied to solving technical problems or overcoming obstacles.


SIMPLE

The team showed great ingenuity in fixing the broken engine.

CONTEXTUAL

With limited supplies on the island, the survivors had to use their ingenuity to build a working shelter.

COMPLEX

The architectural design is a masterpiece of engineering ingenuity, managing to support the massive glass dome without the use of visible internal pillars.

Synonyms
Origin

From Latin ingenuitās.

Usage

Typically used as an uncountable noun to describe a personal quality; occasionally used with 'of' to describe a specific clever act.

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