Synonyms for

Brilliant

Verb / ˈbrɪljʌnt / Another word for brilliant — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

very bright or shining; very intelligent or talented

Synonyms & similar words

splendid smartasawhip bright vivid magnificent glorious superb brainy dazzling bright radiant shining gleaming sparkling vivid luminous smart gifted talented clever intelligent genius wise astute knowledgeable inventive creative ingenious

Synonyms by register

Formal

intelligent clever ingenious astute

Informal

smart sharp brainy savvy

Literary

effulgent resplendent radiant

Antonyms

dull stupid unintelligent dim slow obtuse

Common collocations

  • brilliant mind
  • brilliant idea
  • brilliant performance
  • brilliant scientist
  • brilliant career
  • brilliant student
  • brilliant solution

Word family

noun brilliance
adverb brilliantly

Usage note

Often used to describe intelligence or exceptional skill. Can also describe light or color that is very bright and intense.

Example sentences

  1. The diamond was brilliant and sparkled in the light.
  2. Sara is a brilliant student and always gets good grades.
  3. The fireworks were so brilliant that they lit up the whole sky.
  4. The scientist made a brilliant discovery that changed the world.
  5. The artist used brilliant colors to make a beautiful painting.

Quotes

  • "The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination." - Albert Einstein
  • "Intelligence without ambition is a bird without wings." - Salvador Dali
  • "Creativity is intelligence having fun." - Albert Einstein

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