intellectually curious

USAGE SUMMARY

"intellectually curious" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it anytime you want to describe someone or something that has a keen interest in learning and exploring knowledge. For example: "The young student was intellectually curious and eager to explore the world of science."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Cameron is much less intellectually curious).

The Guardian - Opinion

"I became intellectually curious," he said.

The New Yorker

Gilroy was intellectually curious but unfocussed.

The New Yorker

He was smart, kind and intellectually curious.

The New York Times

He is intellectually curious but cripplingly indecisive.

The Economist

She was generous and intellectually curious.

The New York Times - Arts

He worked the trenches and was intellectually curious about things".

The New York Times - Sports

Hunt describes Kirkham as "intellectually curious and incredibly bright".

The Guardian

Afar There's no better travel magazine these days for the intrepid, adventurous and intellectually curious traveler.

The New York Times

As a memorial to an emotionally generous and intellectually curious parent, Ms. Shlain's film is touching.

The New York Times

The city is safe, interesting, with plenty to offer to intellectually curious travelers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intellectually curious" to describe individuals or groups who demonstrate a genuine interest in exploring new ideas and concepts, not just those who are intelligent but lack motivation to learn.

Common error

Avoid using "intellectually curious" as a direct replacement for "intelligent". The phrase emphasizes an active desire to learn and explore, rather than just possessing a high intellect. It implies an active engagement with new ideas and a thirst for knowledge beyond one's current understanding.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "intellectually curious" is as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies nouns (usually people) to indicate a strong interest in learning and exploring new ideas, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectually curious" is a commonly used and grammatically correct adjective phrase that effectively describes someone with a strong desire to learn and explore new ideas. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in English. This guide highlights its neutral to formal register, its frequent appearance in news and media, and its subtle difference from simply being "intelligent". To avoid common errors, remember that it emphasizes active engagement with knowledge, not just the capacity for it. By understanding these nuances, you can confidently and accurately use "intellectually curious" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectually engaged

Highlights active participation in intellectual pursuits.

inquisitive mind

Focuses on the inherent trait of being inquisitive.

eager to learn

Highlights the enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge.

passion for knowledge

Emphasizes the emotional drive behind seeking knowledge.

knowledge-seeking

Emphasizes the active pursuit of knowledge.

avid learner

Implies a strong and persistent dedication to learning.

academically inclined

Suggests a natural affinity for academic subjects and learning.

analytical thinker

Focuses on the ability to dissect and understand complex information.

explorative mind

Emphasizes the desire to explore new ideas and concepts.

probing intellect

Suggests a deep and thorough intellectual investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "intellectually curious" in a sentence?

You can use "intellectually curious" to describe someone who enjoys learning and exploring new ideas, such as: "She was an "intellectually curious" student, always asking questions and seeking new information."

What are some synonyms for "intellectually curious"?

Alternatives include "inquisitive mind", "eager to learn", or "knowledge-seeking", each highlighting different aspects of a person's interest in learning.

Is it redundant to say "very intellectually curious"?

While not strictly redundant, adding "very" can sometimes feel excessive. The phrase "intellectually curious" already implies a strong interest, so consider whether adding "very" truly enhances the description. Alternatives like "deeply intellectually curious" might offer a more nuanced emphasis.

What is the difference between "intellectually curious" and "intelligent"?

"Intelligent" refers to a person's capacity for understanding and reasoning. "Intellectually curious" describes a person's eagerness to learn and explore new ideas. Someone can be intelligent without being curious, and vice versa.