Intensity: meaning, definitions and examples

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intensity

[ɪnˈtɛnsɪti ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

level of strength

Intensity refers to the degree or amount of strength or force that is present in a particular situation or activity. It is often used to describe the level of power, passion, or emotion in something.

Synonyms

force, power, strength.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intensity	Use this word to describe the degree or magnitude of something, often referring to feelings, colors, light, or activities. The intensity of her emotions was overwhelming. The intensity of the sunlight made it difficult to see.
strength	Use this word to talk about physical capabilities, resilience, or the robustness of materials and people. It can also be used metaphorically to describe emotional or mental fortitude. She showed incredible strength during the crisis. The strength of the bridge was tested rigorously.
power	This word is best used to describe authority, control, or the capability to do something. It can refer to physical strength, energy sources, or influence over others. The president has significant power over government decisions. The new battery pack has increased power and lifespan.
force	This word is suitable for describing physical power or effort, as well as the influence or compulsion to act in a particular way. It can sometimes have a negative connotation when used to describe coercion. The force of the hurricane was unimaginable. The police used force to break up the protest.

Examples of usage

The intensity of the storm caused widespread damage.
She performed with great intensity, captivating the audience.
The intensity of his love for her was evident in his actions.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

brightness or vividness

Intensity can also refer to the brightness or vividness of a color or light. It describes the level of saturation or luminosity in visual perception.

Synonyms

brightness, luminosity, vividness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intensity	This word is often used to describe the level of strength or force of something, such as light, color, emotion, or energy. It can have a technical application in fields like physics. The intensity of the storm was overwhelming. The painting shows a great intensity of color.
brightness	Use this word when referring to the amount of light something emits or reflects. It's often used in both everyday language and technical contexts related to optics and screens. The brightness of the sun made it hard to see. Adjust the brightness of your computer screen if it's too dim.
vividness	This word is used to describe how clear, vibrant, and detailed something appears, often related to colors, memories, or descriptions. It often conveys a positive impression. The vividness of her memories made it seem as though the events had happened yesterday. The artist is known for the vividness of his paintings.
luminosity	This term is mostly used in scientific contexts, particularly in astronomy to describe the intrinsic brightness of celestial objects. It can also be used metaphorically. The star's luminosity is calculated to be much higher than that of the sun. Her charisma brought luminosity to the entire room.

Examples of usage

The intensity of the red in the painting drew attention.
The intensity of the sunlight made everything appear sharper.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

seriousness or focus

Intensity can also indicate the seriousness or focus with which something is done or experienced. It suggests a high level of dedication, concentration, or determination.

Synonyms

dedication, focus, seriousness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intensity	When referring to the level of energy, strength, or concentration applied to something, often in physical activities or emotional experiences. The intensity of the workout left everyone exhausted. She spoke with such intensity that everyone stopped to listen.
seriousness	When describing the gravity or importance of a situation, or when someone approaches a matter with a serious attitude. The seriousness of the situation can't be underestimated. He approached the task with the seriousness it required.
focus	When talking about concentrating one's attention or efforts on a specific task or goal. It is often used in the context of mental activities. You need to focus on your work if you want to finish it on time. His main focus right now is preparing for the exam.
dedication	When highlighting someone's commitment or devotion to a task, project, or cause. It often implies long-term effort and sacrifice. Her dedication to her studies is truly commendable. The team’s dedication was key to their success.

Examples of usage

The intensity of his training regimen paid off in the competition.
She approached her work with great intensity and achieved success.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Originates from the Latin word 'intensitas', meaning 'strength or force'.
The word 'intense' was borrowed into English from Old French, evolving to describe extreme levels of qualities.
It was first recorded in English around the late 14th century, showing how long this concept has been part of language.

Science

In physics, intensity refers to the power per unit area, commonly used in discussions of sound and light.
The intensity of an earthquake is measured by the amount of shaking, which can vary greatly across different regions.
In sports, athletes often refer to their training intensity, which affects their performance and endurance.

Psychology

Emotional intensity can influence behavior, with more intense feelings leading to more engaged or extreme actions.
High-intensity emotions, like anger or joy, often result in memorable experiences that impact long-term memory.
Research shows that people may seek out intense experiences, like thrilling roller coasters, as a way to enhance mood.

Art and Literature

Artists often use high color intensity to evoke strong feelings in their work, capturing attention and stirring emotions.
Intense narratives in literature, filled with drama and conflict, can keep readers engaged by pushing emotional limits.
The use of intensity in poetry often comes through strong imagery and rhythm, enhancing the overall impact of the words.

Pop Culture

Many action movies are described as being high-intensity due to their fast-paced action and dramatic scenes.
In popular music, intensity can be seen in lyrics that convey deep emotions, often making listeners feel connected to the artist.
Fitness trends often promote high-intensity workouts as a quick and effective way to achieve fitness goals.

Translations

Translations of the word "intensity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intensidade

🇮🇳 तीव्रता

🇩🇪 Intensität

🇮🇩 intensitas

🇺🇦 інтенсивність

🇵🇱 intensywność

🇯🇵 強度

🇫🇷 intensité

🇪🇸 intensidad

🇹🇷 yoğunluk

🇰🇷 강도

🇸🇦 شدة

🇨🇿 intenzita

🇸🇰 intenzita

🇨🇳 强度

🇸🇮 intenzivnost

🇮🇸 styrkleiki

🇰🇿 қарқындылық

🇬🇪 ინტენსივობა

🇦🇿 intensivlik

🇲🇽 intensidad

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,279, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2276 binding
2277 bills
2278 camp
2279 intensity
2280 guilty
2281 knowing
2282 representing
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