intellectual capability

USAGE SUMMARY

'intellectual capability' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a person's ability to think and reason. For example, "She demonstrated remarkable intellectual capability in the way she tackled the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The article points out that chimps lack the intellectual capability to fashion such tools.

The New York Times

In my experience, your intellectual capability and skills will take you only so far.

Harvard Business Review

Institutionalisation creates an increased likelihood of reactive attachment disorders, behavioural issues, reduced intellectual capability and poor physical health.

The Guardian

Children tend to be more likely to develop reactive attachment disorders, developmental delays, behavioural issues, poor physical health and reduced intellectual capability compared to those living at home.

The Guardian

Influenced by Plato's philosophy, Christian theologians identified the image of God in human beings only in their intellectual capability and faculty of perception and not in their body.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Later, Ford notes, "A computer doesn't need to replicate the entire spectrum of your intellectual capability in order to displace you from your job; it only needs to do the specific things you are paid to do".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"We're not looking for intellectual capabilities".

The New York Times - Tech

"Her intellectual capabilities are truly outstanding".

The New York Times

The important thing is to still have your intellectual capabilities.

The Guardian

It defies your intellectual capabilities to comprehend it".

The New York Times

But temperament, intellectual capabilities and many other traits do.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing someone's "intellectual capability", provide specific examples or evidence to support your assessment. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating someone's "intellectual capability" without concrete examples. Credibility suffers when claims are not substantiated with factual observations or achievements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intellectual capability" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes the capacity or ability of an individual to engage in cognitive and intellectual activities. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to a person's ability to think and reason.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectual capability" is a common and correct phrase used to describe a person's ability to think and reason. As pointed out by Ludwig AI, it is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English. Analysis of real-world examples reveals that the phrase frequently appears in News & Media and Scientific contexts, reflecting its use in discussions about human potential, skills, and achievements. When using this phrase, providing specific examples or evidence to support your assessment is best practice. Related phrases include "cognitive capacity" and "mental aptitude", which offer slightly different nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cognitive capacity

Replaces "intellectual" with "cognitive", focusing on mental processes.

mental capacity

Replaces "intellectual" with "mental" focusing on overall mental abilities.

thinking ability

Replaces "intellectual" with "thinking" focusing on the ability to use your mind to consider something

mental aptitude

Emphasizes natural talent or ability.

cognitive competence

Replaces "capability" with "competence" focusing on the state of being well qualified

reasoning ability

Highlights the ability to think logically.

cognitive skill

Focuses on learned or developed abilities.

mental prowess

Suggests exceptional skill and ability.

brainpower

A more informal term for intellectual ability.

intellectual potential

Focuses on future capabilities rather than current abilities.

FAQs

How can I use "intellectual capability" in a sentence?

You can use "intellectual capability" to describe someone's ability to think, reason, and understand complex ideas. For example: "The research tested the limits of her intellectual capability".

What's a formal synonym for "intellectual capability"?

A formal synonym is "cognitive capacity", which emphasizes mental processes and understanding.

How does "intellectual capability" differ from "intelligence"?

"Intellectual capability" refers more broadly to someone's capacity for intellectual tasks. "Intelligence" is often regarded as a more general concept of cognitive ability.

What are some related skills that enhance "intellectual capability"?

Skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical reasoning contribute to and enhance one's "intellectual capability".