a degree of intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a degree of intelligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the level or extent of intelligence in a person, animal, or system. Example: "The study revealed that the new AI system demonstrated a degree of intelligence that surpassed previous models."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It serves as rough and unreliable evidence of a degree of intelligence and perseverance -- that's it.

The New York Times

Second, giftedness is generally recognized as more than just a degree of intelligence, even broadly defined.

Britannica

Struth's importance has dawned slowly in the United States, as Richter's did, perhaps because he exercises a degree of intelligence that can, at first, baffle and even intimidate.

The New Yorker

But for all that, Holland Green achieves a degree of intelligence and public spirit almost unheard of in luxury residential developments.

The Guardian - Arts

One option could be to use neuromorphic chips to build a degree of intelligence into the sensors increasingly found in cars, planes, and other systems.

MIT Technology Review

In the past four years, Timbers, who is thirty-five, has directed two Off-Broadway shows that transferred to Broadway, carrying with them a degree of intelligence that is rarely exhibited at theatres above Fourteenth Street: "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson" (2010) and "Peter and the Starcatcher" (2012).

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

At the same time, in the Chinese Room scenario, Searle maintains that a system can exhibit behavior just as complex as human behavior, simulating any degree of intelligence and language comprehension that one can imagine, and simulating any ability to deal with the world, yet not understand a thing.

SEP

"Everybody on our staff with any degree of intelligence would prefer the Mazo book to the Kornitzer book," Nixon said.

The New Yorker

The political class has so far failed to react to Mr. Kejriwal with any degree of intelligence or cunning.

The New York Times

"I think there is a degree of emotional intelligence in there," says Kirwan Hack from career management consultants Fairplace Cedar.

The Guardian - Money

There's a degree of emotional intelligence in Shane Meadows and Jack Thorne's writing that makes up for any longueurs in spades.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a degree of intelligence" to describe a spectrum of intellectual capability, rather than a binary (intelligent/unintelligent) state. For example, comparing different AI models, saying one possesses a higher "degree of intelligence" than another, is more insightful than simply stating one is 'intelligent' and the other is not.

Common error

Avoid using "a degree of intelligence" when referring to inherent or innate characteristics. It's more fitting when discussing acquired or developed intellectual abilities, or when comparing different levels of cognitive function. For inherent capabilities, consider alternatives like "natural aptitude".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a degree of intelligence" functions as a noun phrase, often used as an object or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is used to define or qualify the amount or level of intelligence present. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in both concrete and abstract contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a degree of intelligence" is a grammatically sound and usable English expression, used to signify the extent or level of intellectual capability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for describing both human and artificial intelligence. While it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, its usage remains relatively uncommon overall. When using the phrase, it's important to consider the specific context and choose the most appropriate alternative to accurately convey the intended meaning. Alternatives could be "a certain level of intellect" or "some measure of cognitive ability". Remember to use it when referring to acquired or developed intellectual abilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a certain level of intellect

Emphasizes a specific point on the spectrum of intelligence.

some measure of cognitive ability

Replaces intelligence with cognitive ability, highlighting measurement.

a modicum of intellectual capacity

Indicates a small or moderate amount of intelligence.

a specific amount of smartness

Uses "smartness" instead of intelligence, making it slightly less formal.

a quantity of mental acuity

Replaces intelligence with mental acuity, focusing on sharpness.

an element of understanding

Highlights comprehension as a component of intelligence.

a semblance of intellect

Suggests an outward appearance of intelligence, possibly superficial.

a hint of cognitive function

Indicates a minimal or subtle presence of cognitive ability.

a shade of intellectual prowess

Implies a nuanced or subtle display of intelligence.

an exhibition of mental capacity

Focuses on the observable display or demonstration of intelligence.

FAQs

How can I use "a degree of intelligence" in a sentence?

You can use "a degree of intelligence" to describe the level or extent of intelligence present in a person, system, or entity. For example: "The AI exhibited "a degree of intelligence" in its problem-solving capabilities."

What are some alternatives to saying "a degree of intelligence"?

Alternatives include "a certain level of intellect", "some measure of cognitive ability", or "a modicum of intellectual capacity", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a level of intelligence" or "a degree of intelligence"?

Both "a level of intelligence" and "a degree of intelligence" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on stylistic preference; "a degree of intelligence" might imply a more quantifiable measure, while "a level of intelligence" suggests a stage or rank.

What does it mean when something is said to have "a degree of intelligence"?

It means that the entity exhibits some capacity for intelligent thought, reasoning, or problem-solving. This does not necessarily imply human-level intelligence but suggests a capacity beyond simple programmed responses.