a modicum of intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

"a modicum of intelligence" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a small amount of intelligence, usually implying that someone or something does not have enough intelligence. For example, "He approaches every problem with a modicum of intelligence, but he lacks the insight to really solve it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"If I'd have had a modicum of intelligence I'd have realised that those galacticos were three exceptional human beings.

The Guardian - Sport

People in the industry may not like it, but it will be done based upon at least a modicum of intelligence".

The New Yorker

I have to read so much rubbish here that I'm impressed with any missive that shows even a modicum of intelligence.

The Guardian - Sport

In the 1970's she coined the phrase "beauty with a purpose," and began insisting that besides exhibiting alluring vital statistics, the contestants should display a modicum of intelligence and social awareness.

The New York Times

Anyone with a modicum of intelligence knows that Muslims commit violence just as followers of every faith do.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It even contains a modicum of good news.

The Economist

It also contains a modicum of good news.

The Economist

UNICEF does report a modicum of good news.

The New Yorker

There's even a modicum of good news on China's artificially cheap currency, the renminbi.

The New York Times

The entire post is fairly detailed, ensuring that no one with a modicum of good sense or intelligence will take this young man up on his offer.

TechCrunch

Well, acting is not all that difficult to do if you've got some modicum of intelligence.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a modicum of intelligence" to politely suggest someone lacks a significant amount of intellect without being overtly critical. It's often used in situations where a gentle understatement is preferred.

Common error

Avoid using "a modicum of intelligence" when a stronger, more direct criticism is warranted. The phrase can soften the impact of your message when you need to be clear about someone's lack of understanding or judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modicum of intelligence" functions as a noun phrase. It acts as a subject or object in a sentence, referring to a small quantity of intellectual capacity or understanding. Ludwig AI validates this usage through several examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modicum of intelligence" is a noun phrase used to describe a small quantity of intellectual ability. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and most commonly found in news and media contexts. The phrase often serves as an understated way to express criticism or suggest a lack of intellect. While it is considered a valid English phrase, it's important to use it judiciously, bearing in mind its nuanced meaning and potential for misinterpretation. Alternatives like "a shred of intelligence" or "a glimmer of intelligence" can be used depending on the specific context. The sources available confirm its grammatical correctness and provide ample examples of its usage in professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shred of intelligence

Emphasizes a minimal amount, even less than a modicum.

a glimmer of intelligence

Suggests a faint or fleeting sign of intelligence.

a bit of intelligence

A more casual and general way of saying a small amount of intelligence.

a modicum of insight

Focuses on the presence of understanding or perception.

a modicum of wisdom

Highlights the presence of sound judgment and knowledge.

a modicum of knowledge

Emphasizes the possession of information or awareness.

a degree of intelligence

Indicates a certain level or extent of intelligence.

a modicum of wit

Specifically refers to a small amount of humor and cleverness.

a modicum of ingenuity

Focuses on a small degree of inventiveness and resourcefulness.

a modicum of understanding

Highlights a small amount of comprehension.

FAQs

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

You can use "a modicum of intelligence" to suggest that someone possesses a small amount of intellect. For instance, "Even with "a modicum of intelligence", one could see the flaw in his plan".

What's a less formal alternative to "a modicum of intelligence"?

Less formal alternatives include phrases like "a little bit of smarts" or "some common sense". However, these alternatives may lack the nuanced understatement of "a modicum of intelligence".

Is it better to say "a modicum of intelligence" or "some intelligence"?

"A modicum of intelligence" implies a smaller, perhaps barely sufficient amount, while "some intelligence" is more neutral. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "a modicum of intelligence" and "a paucity of intelligence"?

"A modicum of intelligence" suggests a small amount of intelligence is present, whereas "a paucity of intelligence" implies a scarcity or near absence of intelligence.