discriminating intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "discriminating intelligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a type of intelligence that is capable of making fine distinctions or judgments, often in a critical or discerning manner. Example: "Her discriminating intelligence allowed her to evaluate the artwork with a depth that few others could achieve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Virgos are characterised by hard work, organisational ability and an intensely critical, discriminating intelligence.

Independent

The late William Righter's fine and discriminating intelligence helps us to think this through.

Johns Hopkins University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This means that the most able children are likely to be limited by the nature of the test in adult life, resulting in a reduction in the power of the test to discriminate intelligence at the highest levels (ceiling effect) and a skewed distribution of scores (Figure 1).

Plosone

A review in The New York Times the next day said that he had "a pleasing, resonant voice and a discriminating musical intelligence to guide its use".

The New York Times - Arts

He was also endowed with a discriminating eye, exceptional memory, perceptive intelligence, and humanistic learning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet the intelligence agencies claim they are discriminating in the data they choose to pull out of the dragnet.

TechCrunch

Finding a way out of the fog of war will be difficult, but von Clausewitz offered this advice: "A sensitive and discriminating judgement is called for; a skilled intelligence to scent out the truth".

Huffington Post

Americans are less discriminating.

The Economist

Others are more discriminating.

The New York Times

The thieves were discriminating.

The New York Times

You have to be discriminating".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "discriminating intelligence" when you want to emphasize the ability to make fine, critical judgments, especially in fields like art, music, or intellectual analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "discriminating intelligence" in everyday situations where simpler terms like "good judgment" or "common sense" would suffice. The phrase is best reserved for scenarios requiring a high degree of intellectual precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discriminating intelligence" functions as a descriptive term, highlighting a specific quality of intelligence. Ludwig AI showcases this in examples where it modifies "intelligence" to denote a refined ability to perceive and assess subtle differences.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "discriminating intelligence" is a phrase used to describe the capacity for making refined and critical judgments. While grammatically sound, its usage is relatively rare, predominantly appearing in news, academic, and scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that it’s best employed when precision and nuance are paramount, setting it apart from simpler expressions like "good judgment". Related phrases such as "discerning intellect" and "critical acumen" offer similar shades of meaning. Therefore, use it judiciously, reserving it for situations that truly demand a high degree of intellectual precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discerning intellect

Replaces "intelligence" with "intellect" implying a more profound and reflective cognitive ability.

acute discernment

Emphasizes the sharpness and keenness of perception and judgment.

critical acumen

Highlights the ability to evaluate and analyze information with precision and insight.

refined judgment

Suggests a cultivated and sophisticated ability to make sound decisions.

subtle understanding

Focuses on the capacity to grasp nuanced and complex details.

perceptive insight

Stresses the ability to see beyond the surface and understand underlying truths.

astute observation

Highlights the skill of noticing and interpreting important details.

keen awareness

Emphasizes a sharp and attentive consciousness of relevant factors.

analytical mind

Focuses on the ability to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts.

sophisticated reasoning

Implies a high level of intellectual complexity and logical thinking.

FAQs

How can I use "discriminating intelligence" in a sentence?

You can use "discriminating intelligence" to describe someone's ability to make refined judgments or critical assessments. For example: "Her discriminating intelligence allowed her to see the flaws in the argument."

What's the difference between "discriminating intelligence" and "high intelligence"?

"High intelligence" refers to a general level of intellectual ability, while "discriminating intelligence" implies a specific skill in making fine distinctions and critical judgments. It's not just about how much intelligence, but how it's applied.

What can I say instead of "discriminating intelligence"?

You can use alternatives like "discerning intellect", "critical acumen", or "refined judgment" depending on the context.

In what contexts is "discriminating intelligence" most appropriate?

"Discriminating intelligence" is particularly appropriate in contexts where nuanced judgment and critical analysis are valued, such as art criticism, scientific research, or philosophical debate.