Brilliance: meaning, definitions and examples

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brilliance

[ˈbrɪljəns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

intelligence

The quality of being very intelligent or clever. Brilliance is often associated with exceptional mental abilities and creativity.

Synonyms

cleverness, genius, intelligence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
brilliance	Used to describe exceptional talent or skill in a particular area; often implies a radiant or shining quality. Her brilliance as a pianist captivated the entire audience. The scientist's brilliance was evident in his groundbreaking research.
intelligence	General term for the ability to learn, understand, and apply knowledge. Used to describe cognitive abilities and mental sharpness. Her intelligence was apparent from her excellent grades. Artificial intelligence is transforming how we interact with technology.
genius	Describes someone with extraordinary intellectual or creative power, often in a particular domain. Can also be used to highlight exceptional talent or intellect in general. Einstein's genius changed the field of physics forever. The film director was considered a genius for his innovative techniques.
cleverness	Refers to quick or inventive thinking. Commonly used to describe a practical or sharp mind, often in problem-solving situations. His cleverness helped him solve the puzzle in no time. She admired his cleverness in avoiding the traffic jam.

Examples of usage

She was known for her brilliance in solving complex problems.
His brilliance in mathematics earned him a scholarship to a top university.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

light

Exceptional brightness or radiance, shining with intense light. Brilliance can also refer to the vividness or brightness of colors.

Synonyms

brightness, luminosity, radiance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
brilliance	Used to describe exceptional intelligence, talent, or the vividness of color or light. Her brilliance in mathematics won her numerous awards The jewels sparkled with a rare brilliance
radiance	Indicates an impressive, glowing light. Rarely used figuratively to describe an expression of warmth or joy. The bride's face had a certain radiance as she walked down the aisle The radiance of the full moon lit up the entire valley
brightness	Refers to the quality of being full of light, or the amount of light an object emits or reflects. Also used figuratively to describe a cheerful demeanor. The brightness of the sun made it hard to see His brightness and optimism were contagious
luminosity	Primarily used in scientific or formal contexts to describe the intrinsic brightness of a celestial object. Also refers to the quality of being luminous. Astronomers measured the star's luminosity to determine its age The painting captures the luminosity of the night sky

Examples of usage

The brilliance of the diamond was dazzling.
The colors of the sunset displayed incredible brilliance.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'brilliance' comes from the Middle French term 'brillant,' which means shining or bright.
It traces back to the Latin word 'brillare,' meaning to shine, revealing a long history of celebrating brightness.

Science

In chemistry, brilliance can refer to the intensity of color or light that certain substances exhibit under specific conditions.
In optics, brilliance is measured by how light reflects from a surface, influencing the quality of gemstones.

Art

Artists often strive for brilliance in their work, seeking to evoke strong emotions or thoughts from viewers through vivid colors and striking compositions.
The use of brilliant colors in paintings can create a lasting impact, drawing viewers in and conveying mood.

Pop Culture

The term 'brilliance' is frequently used in movies and books when characters display exceptional intelligence, highlighting their clever plots or inventive solutions.
Television shows featuring 'brilliant' characters often focus on their extraordinary abilities, such as solving crimes or inventing new technology.

Literature

Many famous authors, like Shakespeare, are remembered for their linguistic brilliance, crafting phrases that resonate through time.
In literature, characters described as brilliant often take on leadership roles, reflecting their ability to inspire and motivate others.

Translations

Translations of the word "brilliance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 brilho

🇮🇳 चमक

🇩🇪 Glanz

🇮🇩 kilau

🇺🇦 блиск

🇵🇱 blask

🇯🇵 輝き (kagayaki)

🇫🇷 éclat

🇪🇸 brillo

🇹🇷 parlaklık

🇰🇷 빛남 (bitnam)

🇸🇦 تألق (ta'aluq)

🇨🇿 lesk

🇸🇰 lesk

🇨🇳 辉煌 (huīhuáng)

🇸🇮 sijaj

🇮🇸 ljómi

🇰🇿 жарқырау

🇬🇪 ბრწყინვალება (brtskinvaleeba)

🇦🇿 parıltı

🇲🇽 brillo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,995, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13992 surpass
13993 rein
13994 perishable
13995 brilliance
13996 manipulating
13997 girdle
13998 mutilated
...