a intelligent boy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a intelligent boy" is not correct in English.
It should be "an intelligent boy." You can use the corrected phrase when describing a boy who demonstrates intelligence or cleverness. Example: "He is an intelligent boy who excels in his studies and enjoys reading."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Brooks depicts Caleb with a light touch; he's an intelligent boy, but still a boy, as much a rube, in his way, as Bethia.

The New York Times - Books

"It's no surprise that he's an intelligent player because he's an intelligent boy," Southgate said of the livewire Sunderland forward afterwards.

The Guardian - Sport

"He was an intelligent player, so he is an intelligent boy as well, and that will help him to be successful.

BBC

You see dumb old people because they were dumb kids, and I was an intelligent boy, so I'm an intelligent old man and I can create.

Vice

He might wade from the beach under the careful supervision of an intelligent boy.

The New Yorker

"He is an intelligent boy who loves football," said Wenger of the Nigerian.

The Guardian - Sport

He said his son was "an intelligent boy" who was studying medicine.

The Guardian

'My son was such an intelligent boy, ever since he was born,' says Jean's mother 'Dona' Maria Otoni de Menezes, sobbing.

The Guardian

Clark is an intelligent boy diagnosed 18 months ago with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), who since summer school has already been excluded once in his first term at secondary school and has faced about 20 after-school detentions for disruptive behaviour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

'Callum's an intelligent boy, and I think with the right support he could learn anything, but sometimes he just lashes out.' Andrea Billbow, who runs a support group for families, said there was no evidence the drug would harm young children.

The Guardian

; : Takeyama is an intelligent boy who is good at hacking computers.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use "an intelligent boy" instead of "a intelligent boy". The article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Common error

Avoid using the article "a" before words that begin with a vowel sound. Remember that "intelligent" starts with a vowel sound, so the correct article is "an".

Linguistic Context

The phrase, corrected to "an intelligent boy", functions as a descriptive phrase characterizing a male child. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect in its original form, highlighting the importance of article usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a intelligent boy" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "an intelligent boy". This highlights a crucial aspect of English grammar: using "an" before words that begin with a vowel sound. Ludwig AI confirms the error, underscoring the need for accurate article usage. While the phrase itself is simple, mastering these grammatical nuances is essential for clear and effective communication. Remember to use "an intelligent boy" when describing a boy possessing intelligence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intelligent boy

Corrected version of the original phrase with the proper article usage.

a bright boy

Uses "bright" as a synonym for intelligent, implying quick-wittedness.

a smart boy

Replaces "intelligent" with "smart", a common and slightly less formal synonym.

a clever boy

Uses "clever" to suggest ingenuity and resourcefulness.

a sharp boy

Implies keen intellect and attentiveness.

a gifted boy

Suggests a natural talent or aptitude.

a quick-witted boy

Highlights the boy's ability to think and respond rapidly.

a perceptive boy

Emphasizes the boy's ability to understand things deeply and accurately.

a knowledgeable boy

Highlights the boy's extensive knowledge and understanding of various subjects.

a discerning boy

Focuses on the boy's ability to make good judgments and decisions.

FAQs

Which is correct, "a intelligent boy" or "an intelligent boy"?

The correct phrase is "an intelligent boy". The article "an" should be used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

What can I say instead of "a intelligent boy"?

Since "a intelligent boy" is grammatically incorrect, use "an intelligent boy". You can also use alternatives like "a smart boy" or "a bright boy".

How do I use "an intelligent boy" in a sentence?

You can use "an intelligent boy" to describe someone: "He is an intelligent boy who excels in his studies."

What's the difference between "a intelligent boy" and "an intelligent boy"?

"A intelligent boy" is grammatically incorrect. "An intelligent boy" is the correct form, using the appropriate article before a word starting with a vowel sound.