頭脳
Meanings
1
Refers to the brain as the organ of thought, or to intellectual capacity. Often used in contexts like 頭脳明晰 (clear-headed) or 頭脳労働 (brain work).
He has a clear, sharp mind.
Brain work also requires physical stamina.
2
intellect; intelligence; understanding
Emphasizes intellectual power, reasoning ability, or comprehension. Often used when evaluating someone's mental capacity or in phrases like 頭脳が優れている.
She has a superior intellect.
Solving this problem requires a flexible mind.
Usage patterns
- 〈頭脳〉を使うto use one's brain/mind
You need to use your brain to solve this problem.
- 〈頭脳〉が優れているto have an excellent mind/intellect
He has an excellent mind and always solves problems quickly.
- 〈頭脳〉をフル回転させるto rack one's brain; to think as hard as possible
I racked my brain in preparation for the difficult exam.