Brilliant or Briliant

Which Spelling is Correct?

Understanding the correct spelling of "Brilliant" and "Briliant". This is an adjective meaning exceptionally bright, intelligent, or outstanding.

❌ Briliant

This spelling is incorrect. "Briliant" is a misspelling of the word "brilliant."

Incorrect Examples:

  • • She had a briliant idea
  • • The briliant sun shone brightly
  • • He is a briliant student

✅ Brilliant

This is the correct spelling. "Brilliant" is the proper English spelling.

Correct Examples:

  • • She had a brilliant idea
  • • The brilliant sun shone brightly
  • • He is a brilliant student

Definition of Brilliant

Brilliant (adjective): Exceptionally bright, intelligent, or talented; outstanding in ability or achievement.

Brilliant (adjective): Shining brightly; sparkling or gleaming with light.

Brilliant (adjective): Excellent or outstanding; of exceptional quality or merit.

Used to describe someone or something that is exceptionally bright, intelligent, talented, or outstanding in some way.

Synonyms for Brilliant

  • • Bright
  • • Intelligent
  • • Clever
  • • Smart
  • • Outstanding
  • • Exceptional
  • • Excellent
  • • Remarkable

Notes:

  • • "Brilliant" is always spelled with double "l" in the middle, not single "l"
  • • The word comes from French "brillant" meaning shining or sparkling
  • • The pronunciation is /ˈbrɪljənt/ (BRIL-yuhnt)
  • • "Briliant" is a common misspelling but is never correct
  • • The double "l" is preserved from the French origin
  • • This follows the same pattern as words like "brilliance" and "brilliantly"

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do people spell it "briliant"?

A: This misspelling occurs because people forget to double the "l" in the middle of the word. The correct spelling preserves the double "l" from the French origin.

Q: Is "briliant" ever acceptable?

A: No, "briliant" is always incorrect. Always use "brilliant" in all contexts.

Q: What's the difference between "brilliant" and "bright"?

A: "Bright" generally means giving off light or being intelligent, while "brilliant" suggests exceptional brightness, intelligence, or outstanding quality.

Q: How do I remember the correct spelling?

A: Think of "brilliant" as having double "l" like "brilliance" and "brilliantly." The word comes from French and preserves the double "l."

Summary

Brilliant is the correct spelling of this word. The incorrect spelling "briliant" should never be used.

Remember: Brilliant has double "l" in the middle (like "brilliance" and "brilliantly"). The word comes from French and preserves the double "l" spelling pattern.