intellectually inferior

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intellectually inferior" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone or something whose intellectual or mental capacity is not as impressive as someone or something else. For example, "Many people in the community felt that the new assessment was intellectually inferior to the old one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

tests proved African-­Americans were intellectually inferior.

The New York Times - Magazine

He also worries that he's intellectually inferior.

The New York Times - Books

"They think there's something intellectually inferior there," he said later.

The New York Times

Naipaul looked down on his university colleagues and expatriates; he considered them intellectually inferior.

The New Yorker

A university lecturer who claimed black people were intellectually inferior to whites was suspended today.

The Guardian

"The idea that African American students are somehow inherently intellectually inferior to other students [is] despicable".

The Guardian

"There is a misconception … that we are 'thick cleaners' and intellectually inferior.

The Guardian - Money

Using that same logic, human beings are intellectually inferior to elephants and sperm whales.

The Guardian

Our best universities have, paradoxically, typically looked down their noses at education, as if it were intellectually inferior.

The New York Times

The "Hall" Greenes felt intellectually inferior to their cousins and were much less effective, though two were just as strange.

The Economist

What we are telling you is not, as too many Trump supporters all too often assume, that Trump voters are to be discounted as intellectually inferior.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intellectually inferior", consider the audience and context, as it can be perceived as offensive. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "less skilled" or "less experienced" when appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "intellectually inferior" to make broad generalizations about entire groups of people. Focus on specific skills or areas of expertise rather than implying inherent inferiority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intellectually inferior" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and used to describe someone or something as having a lower level of cognitive ability or intelligence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intellectually inferior" is a grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe someone or something with a lower level of cognitive ability. As Ludwig confirms, it is widely used but can be considered offensive depending on the context. While frequently found in News & Media and Science, it is advisable to use it carefully and be mindful of the potential negative impact. In many situations, opting for more neutral phrases like "less skilled" or ""intellectually limited"" can be a more appropriate and respectful choice. Consider the intent and audience to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less intelligent

A more comparative and less absolute way to express intellectual inferiority.

intellectually limited

Highlights restrictions in intellectual capabilities.

cognitively deficient

Focuses on a lack or inadequacy in cognitive functions.

mentally inadequate

Emphasizes a lack of mental capacity to meet certain demands or expectations.

lacking intelligence

Directly states the absence of a sufficient level of intelligence.

mentally slower

Indicates a slower pace in cognitive processing.

not as bright

An informal and softer way to suggest lower intelligence.

less astute

Focuses on a lack of keenness or sharpness in understanding.

dim-witted

An informal term suggesting a lack of mental sharpness.

cognitively challenged

A euphemistic term suggesting difficulties in cognitive functions.

FAQs

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

You can use "intellectually inferior" to describe someone or something considered lower in cognitive ability compared to another. For example, "The study suggested the older model was "intellectually inferior" to the newer version."

What's a less offensive way to say "intellectually inferior"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "less skilled", "less experienced", or "cognitively deficient".

Is it appropriate to use "intellectually inferior" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "intellectually inferior" can be seen as harsh. Consider using it carefully in formal writing and opt for alternatives that are more neutral and descriptive, such as "intellectually limited".

What is the difference between "intellectually inferior" and "less intelligent"?

"Intellectually inferior" implies a more significant gap in cognitive ability, while "less intelligent" simply indicates a lower level of intelligence. The former can be seen as more judgmental.