Used to emphasize a contrast between physical strength and intelligence or mental skills. The challenge requires brawn to lift heavy weights, not brainpower.
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Often Complementary
Brawn doesn't always exclude brains; they are often presented as complementary traits. The athlete had both brawn and brains, excelling in sports as well as academics.
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Metaphoric Usage
Can be used metaphorically to refer to the strength or power of an object or group. The corporation's brawn in the marketplace worried its competitors.