Meaning & use
divinely inspired
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Meanings
adjectivenot comparableformalreligion
Believed to have been guided or created by a god or gods.
Grammar: Used after a linking verb or before a noun: the text is divinely inspired; a divinely inspired book.
Patterns
- be divinely inspired
- a divinely inspired text
Many believers consider the scriptures to be divinely inspired.
The temple was built according to a divinely inspired plan.
She wrote a divinely inspired poem about creation.
adjectivenot comparablefigurativeformal
Seeming to come from a god because it is unusually beautiful or wise.
Grammar: Often used figuratively in reviews of art, music, or writing.
Patterns
- divinely inspired music
- sound divinely inspired
The choir's performance sounded divinely inspired.
Critics called the painting divinely inspired.
Common combinations
- divinely inspired scripture
- The community treats the scripture as divinely inspired.
- divinely inspired art
- Visitors described the cathedral's art as divinely inspired.
- believe something is divinely inspired
- Millions believe the book is divinely inspired.
- divinely inspired message
- The prophet claimed to bring a divinely inspired message.
Synonyms and how they differ
- god-given
- More informal and often used of talents or rights, not texts.
- heaven-sent
- Usually means something arrived at exactly the right time; it is less about divine origin.
- sacred
- Means holy or set apart for worship; it does not necessarily mean inspired by a god.
Opposites
Word family
- divine adjective
- Relating to a god; also meaning excellent.
- divinely adverb
- In a way that relates to a god.
- inspiration noun
- A sudden good idea or the influence that produces it.
- inspire verb
- To make someone want to do something or feel something.
Commonly confused: divinely inspired or inspired?
divinely inspired vs inspired
Inspired alone means having a good idea or being excited to create; divinely inspired adds the idea of a god.
Practice
Which sentence uses “divinely inspired” correctly?
Choose one answer.
“Divinely inspired” describes something believed to come from a god, so A fits. B and D use it for ordinary actions, and C uses it as a simple compliment about food, which is not the usual meaning.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “divinely inspired”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.