intellectual ability

USAGE SUMMARY

'intellectual ability' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it whenever you are referring to someone's capacity for thought or problem-solving. For example, "Nina's intellectual ability was evident in the way she quickly solved the complex equation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Their intellectual ability.

The New York Times

She wore her intellectual ability very lightly".

The New York Times - Arts

His barrister said he had "limited intellectual ability".

The Guardian

Academic success is about so much more than intellectual ability.

The New York Times

He adds that intellectual ability — the trait that an I.Q.

The New York Times

Both Mirvis and Welby are stepping into the shoes of predecessors known for their intellectual ability.

The Guardian - Opinion

Autistic people exhibit a range of intellectual ability, including exceptional intellect.

The Guardian

"I thought that's where people go who don't have much intellectual ability.

The New York Times

The Financial Times commended his "intellectual ability, experience, political acumen and cool toughness".

The Guardian

Koster had doubts about Henderson's intellectual ability, and these were known to the Colonel.

The New Yorker

"But they do want a president with some intellectual ability," Mr. Wayne said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing someone's potential, use "intellectual ability" to emphasize their inherent capacity for learning and understanding.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "intellectual ability" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "smartness" or "intelligence" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intellectual ability" functions as a noun phrase, referring to a person's capacity for cognitive functions such as reasoning, problem-solving, and learning. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectual ability" is a widely used and grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to one's capacity for cognitive functions. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that it is most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, reflecting its neutral register. While interchangeable with phrases like "cognitive capacity" or "mental aptitude", it's essential to consider the specific nuance required for each context. When using this term, remember to maintain a neutral register and consider simpler alternatives in informal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectual capacity

Similar to "intellectual ability" but focuses more on the potential or limit of mental function.

cognitive capacity

Focuses on the brain's ability to process information.

mental aptitude

Implies a natural talent or predisposition for learning and understanding.

mental acuity

Emphasizes sharpness, quickness, and keenness of thought.

cognitive skill

Emphasizes learned or developed abilities related to thinking.

cognitive competence

Highlights the ability to effectively apply cognitive skills in real-world situations.

reasoning power

Highlights the capacity for logical thought and inference.

brainpower

An informal term for intellectual capacity or mental energy.

thinking skills

A broader term that includes various cognitive processes such as problem-solving and critical thinking.

intellectual prowess

Suggests exceptional skill and expertise in intellectual pursuits.

FAQs

How is "intellectual ability" typically measured?

While there are many ways of measuring someone's "intellectual ability", IQ tests and standardized academic assessments are among the most commonly used methods.

What factors can affect a person's "intellectual ability"?

Factors such as genetics, nutrition, education, and environmental influences can all play a significant role in shaping a person's "intellectual ability".

Which is a more formal phrase, "intellectual ability" or "mental capacity"?

"Intellectual ability" and "mental capacity" are both formal. "Intellectual ability" tends to focus more on learned skills, whereas "mental capacity" refers more to the potential limit of brain function.

What are some skills that can enhance "intellectual ability"?

Skills that enhance "intellectual ability" include critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication.