a shred of intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shred of intelligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a very small amount of intelligence, often in a sarcastic or critical context. Example: "After his ridiculous comments, I wondered if he had even a shred of intelligence left."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Saying gunslinging is so-so-sexy to other young, still-in-school children just shows that she may have a woman's body but not a shred of intelligence.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Burr's request is yet another twist in the Intelligence Committee's six-year study into the efficacy of the CIA's "detention and interrogation" program, and the integrity of the report drafted by the Democratic majority of the committee that concluded that the program did not produce a shred of valuable intelligence.

Vice

He said of his arrest: "At no time during my detention did the police present a shred of evidence or intelligence, which in either my opinion or the opinion of my solicitor, warranted my arrest.

The Guardian

But Japanese and Hungarian researchers report that they may yet possess a shred of something akin to intelligence.

Science Magazine

Much of the country, regardless of party, didn't want to question its leaders, no matter how obviously they were hyping any misleading shred of intelligence that could fit their predetermined march to war.

The New York Times

There is not a shred of evidence to support that claim, one that falls into the same category as the bogus intelligence relied on to justify war in Iraq.

The Guardian

Without a shred of grace?

The New York Times

Not a shred of evidence is offered.

The Guardian - Opinion

Tantalisingly, though, a shred of doubt remains.

The Guardian - Books

With not a shred of sugar?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Not a shred of doubt," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a shred of intelligence" to express a critical or sarcastic sentiment when you believe someone is acting without reasonable thought. For example, "He didn't show "a shred of intelligence" during the negotiation."

Common error

While "a shred of intelligence" is acceptable, overuse in formal contexts might make your writing sound overly informal or sarcastic. Consider more neutral phrases like "limited understanding" or "lack of insight" for professional communications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shred of intelligence" functions primarily as a noun phrase used in an attributive manner. It typically modifies a subject or object, indicating a very small or virtually nonexistent amount of intellect. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science & Research

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a shred of intelligence" is a common expression used to denote a very small amount of intellect or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable, although it carries a slightly sarcastic or critical tone. It's most frequently found in news and media, science, and academic contexts. While acceptable, it's important to consider the register and audience, as it could be perceived negatively in formal settings. Alternatives like "an iota of intelligence" or "a spark of intelligence" may offer a less judgmental nuance depending on the intent. When used effectively, the phrase can underscore a perceived lack of cognitive ability in a memorable way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an iota of intelligence

Replaces "shred" with "iota", emphasizing a tiny amount.

a spark of intelligence

Substitutes "shred" with "spark", suggesting a small, nascent amount of intelligence.

a hint of intelligence

Replaces "shred" with "hint", implying a subtle indication of intelligence.

a trace of intelligence

Substitutes "shred" with "trace", suggesting a barely perceptible amount of intelligence.

a glimmer of intelligence

Replaces "shred" with "glimmer", suggesting a fleeting sign of intelligence.

the barest intelligence

Uses "barest" to emphasize the minimal amount of intelligence.

minimal intelligence

Simplifies to a direct statement of low intelligence.

little to no intelligence

Emphasizes the lack of intelligence, or the extremely small quantity.

any semblance of intelligence

Introduces "semblance", focusing on the outward appearance of intelligence, which may not be genuine.

a modicum of intelligence

Substitutes "shred" with the more formal "modicum", indicating a small quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a shred of intelligence" to express that someone lacks even a minimal amount of understanding or common sense. For example, "Does he have "a shred of intelligence" if he thinks that's a good idea?"

What's the difference between "a shred of intelligence" and "a spark of intelligence"?

"A shred of intelligence" often implies a negative judgment, suggesting someone lacks even the smallest amount of sense. "A spark of intelligence", on the other hand, suggests a small potential for understanding or brilliance that could grow.

Are there more formal alternatives to "a shred of intelligence"?

Yes, in formal contexts, you could use phrases like "limited understanding", "lack of insight", or "cognitive deficit" to convey a similar meaning without the potential for sounding sarcastic or critical.

Is it appropriate to use "a shred of intelligence" in professional writing?

Using "a shred of intelligence" can be risky in professional writing, as it's often interpreted as sarcastic or condescending. It's best to opt for neutral language that focuses on objective observations, like "lacking relevant experience" or "demonstrates limited comprehension".