What is brilliant? Pronunciation and usage in English

brilliant means . Learn how to pronounce and use brilliant through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of brilliant

brilliantadjective

/ˈbrɪlj(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of brilliant

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "brilliant" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • ˈbrɪlɪənt

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  1. "bril-": This part sounds like "bril" – similar to the word "brill" (as in a sparkly gem). The 'br' is pronounced as one sound, like in "bright."

  2. "-i-": This is a short, quick "i" sound, like in the word "bit." ( /ɪ/)

  3. "-ent": This is where it gets tricky. It's pronounced like "uhnt" – a very short, unstressed "uh" sound followed by a "nt" sound (rhymes with "went"). It’s not like the "ent" in "went" in many American accents. Think of it almost like "uh-nt".

Here’s a breakdown of the sounds:

  • ˈ: This symbol indicates the primary stress. It's on the first syllable ("bril-").
  • bril: /brɪl/ (as described above)
  • i: /ɪ/ (short "i" sound)
  • ent: /ənt/ (short "uh" sound followed by "nt")

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear the word spoken correctly. You can find many examples on:

    • Google Translate: Just type "brilliant" and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/%C3%98%C3%9Bli%C3%A6nt/ - This site has recordings of the word pronounced by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce brilliant" - you'll find many videos.

  • Don't overemphasize the "ent": It’s a very subtle sound. It's easy to pronounce it too strongly.

  • Practice: Say the word slowly at first, focusing on each syllable. Then, gradually increase your speed.

Regional Variations

While the /ˈbrɪlɪənt/ pronunciation is most common, you might hear slightly different pronunciations in certain regions (particularly in the UK). However, the above pronunciation is a safe bet and will be understood everywhere.

Do you want me to:

  • Record an example pronunciation?
  • Give you more practice words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word brilliant in English

Let's break down how to use the word "brilliant" effectively in English. It's a fantastic word, but it needs to be used thoughtfully to really land!

1. Basic Meaning & Core Uses:

  • Excellent/Outstanding: This is the most common use. “Brilliant” means exceptionally good, impressive, or outstanding.

    • Example: "That was a brilliant performance! You nailed the part."
    • Example: "The weather today is brilliant – perfect for a picnic."

  • Clever/Smart: It can also describe someone or something that's clever, intelligent, or resourceful.

    • Example: "She came up with a brilliant solution to the problem."
    • Example: "He's a brilliant engineer."

2. Shades of Meaning & How to Adjust Your Usage:

  • Truly Amazing (High Praise): When you want to express a very strong sense of admiration, "brilliant" is perfect.

    • Example: "The sunset over the ocean was absolutely brilliant."

  • Shiny/Bright (Literal): It can also describe something that shines or is brightly colored. This is less common now, but still valid.

    • Example: "She wore a brilliant ruby ring."

  • Quickly Done/Efficient (Less Common): Sometimes, “brilliant” implies something was done very quickly and effectively. This is a slightly less natural use than the other two.

    • Example: "He brilliantly solved the puzzle in under five minutes." (Sounds a little formal)

3. Grammatical Uses (Adjective):

  • Describing nouns: “Brilliant” always describes a noun.
    • Correct: "That was a brilliant idea."
    • Incorrect: "I have a brilliantly."

4. Figurative Uses (Less Common - Use Carefully):

  • Brilliant Idea/Plan ( figurative ): You can use it to describe an idea that's particularly imaginative or effective.
    • Example: “We need a brilliant plan to attract more customers."

5. When Not to Use It:

  • Overuse: “Brilliant” is a powerful word. Overusing it can make it lose its impact and sound insincere. Save it for truly exceptional things.
  • Too Casual: While it’s okay in informal conversation, it might feel a little too enthusiastic for very formal writing. Consider alternatives like "excellent," "remarkable," or "outstanding" in those contexts.

6. Synonyms to Consider (depending on the nuance you want to convey):

  • Excellent: A good, general synonym.
  • Fantastic: Suggests excitement and delight.
  • Amazing: Similar to brilliant, emphasizing the surprising nature of something.
  • Wonderful: Expresses joy and appreciation.
  • Remarkable: Highlights something that stands out.
  • Ingenious: Emphasizes cleverness and inventiveness.
  • Clever: Focused on intelligence and wit.

Resources for Practice:

To help me tailor my advice even more, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking of using "brilliant" in? (e.g., writing a story, talking to friends, giving a presentation?)
  • Is there a specific situation where you want to use it? (e.g., describing a performance, an invention, an idea?)

Synonyms for the word brilliant

Practice with vocabulary brilliant

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The scientist proposed a ________ solution to the complex problem, earning accolades from her peers.
  2. Although the idea seemed ________ at first, it lacked practicality in execution.
  3. His ________ performance in the debate left the audience in awe.
  4. The team worked tirelessly to deliver a ________ result, but it still needed improvement.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best describes an exceptionally clever or impressive idea?
    a) Ordinary
    b) Brilliant
    c) Average
    d) Mediocre
  2. Select the word that does NOT mean "exceptionally good":
    a) Superb
    b) Brilliant
    c) Subpar
    d) Outstanding
  3. Which term fits the sentence: "Her ________ speech inspired everyone"?
    a) Brilliant
    b) Dull
    c) Engaging
    d) Unremarkable
  4. Identify the word that does NOT belong in the group below:
    a) Radiant
    b) Luminous
    c) Brilliant
    d) Dim
  5. Choose the correct word to fill in the blank: "The ________ plan was executed flawlessly."
    a) Clever
    b) Genius
    c) Brilliant
    d) Flawed

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The artist’s work was incredibly impressive.
    Rewrite: The artist’s work was ________.
  2. Original: The professor’s explanation was clear and insightful.
    Rewrite: The professor’s explanation was ________.
  3. Original: The results of the experiment were outstanding.
    Rewrite: The results of the experiment were ________.

Answer

Exercise 1:

  1. brilliant
  2. reasonable
  3. brilliant
  4. solid

Exercise 2:

  1. b) Brilliant
  2. c) Subpar
  3. a) Brilliant
  4. d) Dim
  5. c) Brilliant

Exercise 3:

  1. The artist’s work was brilliant.
  2. The professor’s explanation was brilliant.
  3. The results of the experiment were exceptional.

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