adjective
Common
inspired
ihn-SPEYE-uhd
Inspired (adjective) means showing unusual creativity, skill, or energy, as if from a sudden burst of inspiration. Example: “It was an inspired choice to cast her in the lead role.”
adjective
1
Showing unusual creativity, skill, or energy, as if from a sudden burst of inspiration.
"It was an inspired choice to cast her in the lead role."
"The chef came up with an inspired twist on the classic recipe."
"Her inspired speech turned the whole meeting around."
2
Filled with enthusiasm or motivation.
"After the seminar, she felt inspired to start her own business."
"The coach's talk left the team feeling inspired and ready."
"I felt inspired to paint again after visiting the gallery."
How to use inspired
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes something unusually clever or a person full of creative motivation.
Common pairings
an inspired choice
feel inspired
inspired by
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more inspired
- Superlative
- most inspired
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It was an _____ choice to cast her in the lead role.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for inspired
See all rhymes for inspired →Frequently asked questions
What does “inspired” mean?
The word “inspired” means showing unusual creativity, skill, or energy, as if from a sudden burst of inspiration. In plain terms, describes something unusually clever or a person full of creative motivation.
How do you pronounce “inspired”?
“Inspired” is pronounced ihn-SPEYE-uhd (/ɪnˈspaɪɹd/ in IPA).
How do you use “inspired” in a sentence?
Here is “inspired” used in a sentence: “It was an inspired choice to cast her in the lead role.”
What part of speech is “inspired”?
“Inspired” is an adjective.
Is “inspired” a common word?
“Inspired” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “inspired” have?
“Inspired” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: showing unusual creativity, skill, or energy, as if from a sudden burst of inspiration.
What is the difference between inspired and inspiring?
Inspired describes someone or something that shows brilliance, as if fuelled by a sudden creative spark, such as an inspired decision. Inspiring describes something that gives inspiration to others, such as an inspiring speech. Put simply, an inspired person has received the spark, while an inspiring person passes it on.
Is inspired a compliment?
Yes, calling something inspired is high praise. It suggests a choice or creation showed unusual imagination, skill, or flair, more than merely competent. An inspired guess, an inspired piece of casting, or an inspired menu all imply a touch of brilliance that ordinary effort would not have produced.
What is an example of inspired?
Calling a chef's unusual flavour pairing inspired means it was strikingly creative and worked brilliantly. An inspired substitution in football might be a coach's surprise change that wins the match. The word marks a decision or piece of work that feels touched by genius rather than routine.
What is the difference between inspired and talented?
Talented describes a natural, lasting ability someone possesses. Inspired describes a particular act or work that shows a burst of brilliance, whether or not the person is generally gifted. A talented artist may still have off days, while even an amateur can occasionally produce one inspired piece.
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