certain degree of intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain degree of intelligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the level or amount of intelligence someone or something possesses. Example: "To solve complex problems, a certain degree of intelligence is required."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Barrat's core argument, which he borrows from the A.I. researcher Steve Omohundro, is that the drive for self-preservation and resource acquisition may be inherent in all goal-driven systems of a certain degree of intelligence.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are people who dislike steady work in a store or a factory or an office, or have not the aptitude for it, have a certain degree of mechanic intelligence, have no desire to rise very far in the world, enjoy driving for its own sake, and are not afraid of the dangers that threaten those who are on the road at night.

The New Yorker

It's not too hard, with a certain degree of emotional intelligence, to tell whether this stranger [me] would like to converse or would like to be left alone.

Vice

Collective intelligence relies on a certain degree of innocence.

The New Yorker

Others admitted they resorted to a certain degree of self-censorship, avoiding certain topics like how ISIS gathers intelligence and finances its extremism.

Huffington Post

"A certain degree of risk is accepted.

The New York Times - Books

There's a certain degree of shame".

The Guardian

And with a certain degree of fear.

The Guardian - Books

Everybody has a certain degree of leadership.

The New York Times - Sports

"Any major surgery entails a certain degree of risk".

The New York Times

So this suggests a certain degree of cynical political opportunism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the intelligence of AI systems, use "certain degree of intelligence" to acknowledge the varying levels and types of intelligence these systems can possess.

Common error

Avoid using "certain degree of intelligence" when describing simple tasks or processes that don't genuinely require significant cognitive ability. Reserve it for situations where a measurable level of intelligence is demonstrably present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain degree of intelligence" functions as a qualifier modifying the noun "intelligence". It indicates that intelligence is present to some extent, without specifying an exact measure. As Ludwig states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain degree of intelligence" is a grammatically sound way to acknowledge the presence of intelligence without specifying a precise amount. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and commonly used. It appears in various contexts, including news and science, often to discuss AI or human capabilities. When using this phrase, avoid overstating the level of intelligence required and consider alternatives like "some level of intelligence" or "a measure of intelligence" for different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some level of intelligence

Replaces "certain degree" with "some level", offering a slightly less precise quantification of intelligence.

a measure of intelligence

Substitutes "certain degree" with "a measure", highlighting the aspect of assessing or quantifying intelligence.

a particular level of cognitive ability

Replaces "intelligence" with "cognitive ability" and specifies "particular level", broadening the scope to cognitive functions.

a specific amount of intellectual capacity

Emphasizes the quantity of intellectual capacity required.

requisite level of smartness

Uses the term "smartness" for intelligence to be more informal.

necessary intellectual acumen

Replaces "intelligence" with "intellectual acumen", indicating sharp insight.

minimum level of awareness

Focuses on basic understanding, simplifying "intelligence" to "awareness".

adequate mental capacity

Uses the term "mental capacity" as opposed to the level of intelligence, focusing on mental capacity.

an appropriate amount of intellectual skill

Using the word "skill" highlights the intelligence being a developed talent.

a baseline of understanding

Simplifies "intelligence" to a foundational level of "understanding".

FAQs

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

You might say, "A successful project requires a "certain degree of intelligence" to anticipate potential problems".

What's a more formal way to say "certain degree of intelligence"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a measure of intelligence" or "a particular level of cognitive ability" as alternatives to "certain degree of intelligence".

Is it always necessary to specify a "certain degree of intelligence"?

No, if the context makes it clear that intelligence is required, you can simply refer to "intelligence". Specifying a "certain degree" is useful when the level or type of intelligence is relevant.

What is the difference between "certain degree of intelligence" and "high level of intelligence"?

"Certain degree of intelligence" implies a nonspecific level, while "high level of intelligence" suggests advanced cognitive capabilities. The former is less committal about the magnitude of intelligence involved.