Genius: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes someone with exceptional intellectual or creative power or a person who has achieved outstanding results in their field.

• Albert Einstein is considered a genius in the field of physics
• Her genius idea revolutionized the tech industry

Often used to describe a person with outstanding intelligence or talent, but also can be used to describe something exceptionally clever, impressive, or excellent.

• She had a brilliant performance in her exams
• The plan was simply brilliant

Refers to a person who plans and directs a complex or intelligent scheme or operation, often used in a context involving strategy or a cunning plan.

• He was the mastermind behind the successful marketing campaign
• The mastermind of the heist was apprehended by the police

Describes a young person who has extraordinary talent or ability at a very early age. It emphasizes the youth and remarkable skill of the individual.

• Mozart was a musical prodigy, composing music by the age of five
• The young chess prodigy defeated all the seasoned players

Use this word similarly to describe someone with extraordinary natural talent, not necessarily in multiple fields.

• Her songwriting skills reveal her to be a musical genius

This word suits someone who introduces new methods, ideas, or products. Typically used in business and technology contexts.

• Steve Jobs is celebrated as an innovator for revolutionizing the tech industry

Use this word for someone who is among the first to explore or settle a new area, or who is a trailblazer in a new field.

• Marie Curie was a pioneer in the field of radioactivity research

This term refers to someone who makes new tracks through uncharted territory, or leads the way in a particular field. It has a somewhat informal tone.

• As a trailblazer in the social media industry, she changed the way people communicate online