Brainwave: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a sudden clever idea or realization, often in an informal or casual setting.

• He had a brainwave and figured out how to fix the machine.
• During the meeting, Jane had a brainwave that solved the problem.

A general term for any thought or suggestion that comes to mind. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• Do you have any ideas for the project?
• Her idea was to plant more trees around the school.

Refers to a deep understanding of a complex problem or situation, often used in more formal or intellectual contexts.

• His insight into human behavior was impressive.
• The article provided valuable insights into the company's strategy.

A basic unit of cognition, referring to something that one thinks; can be abstract, fleeting, serious, or casual.

• I just had a thought: what if we try a different approach?
• She often lost herself in thought while walking in the park.

This term is most commonly used to describe sudden, brilliant ideas or insights. It's often used in everyday speech to highlight a moment of inspiration or clever thinking.

• She had a brainwave about how to solve the problem.
• In a moment of brainwave, he figured out the perfect present.

Often used in scientific and academic settings, this term is used to describe the electrical and chemical processes in the brain and nervous system. It's more specific than 'brain activity' and usually relates to research or technical discussions.

• The study focused on neural activity in the prefrontal cortex.
• Understanding neural activity helps scientists learn how the brain processes information.

This phrase is typically used in scientific and medical contexts to describe the functioning of the brain, especially measured through tools like EEGs (electroencephalograms). It refers to the general actions and responses of the brain.

• The doctors monitored his brain activity during the surgery.
• Increased brain activity can be a sign of stress.