intelligent - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
intelligent Word Meanings
- having the ability to think, understand, and learn.
- demonstrating and applying knowledge or skills.
- quick to comprehend or devise solutions.
intelligent Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
intelligent Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈtɛl.ɪ.dʒənt/
US
/ɪnˈtɛlədʒənt/
intelligent Word Etymology
From Latin 'intelligentem' (understanding) – from 'inter-' (between) + 'legere' (to choose or read). Imagine an intelligent person bridging gaps with knowledge, choosing wisely on a path illuminated by lights showing the way forward.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push my chair closer, place a notebook on the desk, and turn the page to begin. As I read, ideas move in my head and shift toward a solution. The effort feels like steering a small engine, a steady push and adjust until the meaning lands clearly. That moment when the right move lands and a task clicks, that is the feel of intelligent in action.
Real Context
Intelligent means possessing the ability to think, understand, learn, and apply knowledge. It is broader than clever or smart and emphasizes reasoning, problem solving, and the capacity to handle unfamiliar situations. In education and work, you might describe someone as intelligent if they grasp complex ideas quickly and use what they know to make good judgments. It can refer to people as well as well-designed systems or algorithms that perform well because of sound logic and data processing. The term carries a respectful tone, suggesting depth of understanding rather than merely quick wit. Avoid using it for simple trivia or constant bragging; reserve it for genuine reasoning power and learning ability.
Usage Reminders
- Compare with clever and smart to feel the nuance.
- Describe people or systems with intelligent (intelligent student, intelligent design).
- Pair with verbs like think, understand, learn to show capacity.
- Avoid using it for small, trivia tasks.
- Watch tone to avoid sounding boastful.
Common Misconceptions
- Intelligent = wise in every situation.
- Intelligent = always correct or flawless.
- Intelligent describes only people, not systems.
- Intelligent is the same as clever or smart in all contexts.
- Intelligent means you were born with it, not developed through learning.
Thinking Differences
Intelligent in English often implies a deep, reasoning-based capacity rather than trickery; learners may overuse it to describe anyone who appears clever.
Learning Tips
- Compare intelligent with similar words (clever, smart, bright) to feel the nuance.
- Use with nouns to describe people or systems (an intelligent student, an intelligent design).
- Pair with verbs like think, understand, learn to show capacity.
- Avoid overusing for trivial tasks; emphasize reasoning.
- Practice with sentences about solving problems.
- Listen for tone to avoid sounding boastful.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'intelligent' correctly?
A.She is a lazy student.
B.The intelligent dog chased its tail.
C.He always completes his homework on time.
D.Let's go for a walk in the park.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'intelligent'?
A.Clever
B.Brilliant
C.Sharp
D.Foolish
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would being 'intelligent' be advantageous?
A.Taking a difficult exam
B.Playing a video game
C.Cooking a meal
D.Watching a movie
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a situation where being 'intelligent' would be essential?
A.Eating junk food
B.Sleeping all day
C.Skipping school
D.Answering complex questions
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