WordGarden.iobrilliantly
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /brˈɪlɪəntli/
US
- /ˈbrɪljəntli/
Meanings
Adverb
in an excellent, impressive, or highly successful way
in a very clever or intelligent way
with very bright light or vivid visual appearance
Beyond the definition
To do something brilliantly isn't just about being good at it—it's about doing it with exceptional skill, flair, and often, a touch of dazzling creativity. Think of a magician performing a complex trick flawlessly, or a musician hitting every note perfectly in a challenging piece. They aren't simply succeeding; they are succeeding brilliantly.
The word evokes images of shining light—like the brilliance of a diamond. You might say someone solved a difficult puzzle brilliantly, or that a chef prepared a meal brilliantly. It can also describe something visually striking: "The sunset was brilliantly colored." It's more than just "well done"; it's an achievement worthy of admiration.
"Brilliantly" is an adverb used to describe how something is performed—with exceptional skill, intelligence, or flair. It suggests an execution that goes beyond mere competence and enters the realm of impressive artistry or cleverness.
Think about a detective who brilliantly unravels a complex mystery, piecing together clues with sharp insight. Or consider an actor who brilliantly portrays a character, captivating the audience with their nuanced performance. "She handled the difficult situation brilliantly" implies she navigated it with both grace and effectiveness.
While often used to describe intellectual or artistic achievements, "brilliantly" can also apply to visual intensity. An artist might paint a scene so it appears brilliantly vivid, or a spotlight might shine brilliantly across a stage, suggesting clarity and radiance.
The word is inextricably linked to the concept of "brilliance," carrying a sense of shining excellence. It is not enough for something to simply work; when done brilliantly, it stands out. It implies a level of mastery that commands attention and earns praise. So next time you witness an exceptional feat, remember "brilliantly"—it's the perfect word to capture that dazzling display of skill and ingenuity.
Examples
- 1
Music performance
She played the piano brilliantly at the concert.
- 2
Clear explanation
He explained the new system brilliantly, so everyone understood it.
- 3
Sports pressure
The coach handled the pressure brilliantly after the team fell behind.
- 4
Simple solution
It's a brilliantly simple solution to a complicated problem.
- Phrasebrilliantly simple
very clever and easy at the same time
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Technology
The new booking system works brilliantly on my phone.
- 6
Visual display
The fireworks burst brilliantly over the river.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- performed brilliantly
- worked brilliantly
- played brilliantly
- argued brilliantly
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- brilliantlyadverb