intelligent design

USAGE SUMMARY

'intelligent design' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used in various contexts, but generally refers to the idea that certain features of the universe and living things are best explained by an intelligent cause rather than an undirected process such as natural selection. For example: "The intricate structure of the eyes is often cited as an example of intelligent design."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's a product of intelligent design — Obama's intelligence, Obama's design.

The New Yorker

Intelligent design.

The New York Times

Therefore, intelligent design.

The New York Times - Books

Look at intelligent design.

The New Yorker

Intelligent design, you could say.

Independent

Effective climate-proofing demands more intelligent design.

The New Yorker

(Intelligent Design was embraced, then abandoned).

The Economist

Intelligent design is not a scientific hypothesis.

The New York Times

"Excellent, intelligent design improves quality of life".

The Guardian - Arts

It's a great argument against intelligent design.

The Guardian - Books

What is the theory of "intelligent design"?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "intelligent design", clarify the specific context to avoid ambiguity. The term often carries religious or philosophical implications.

Common error

Avoid presenting "intelligent design" as an equivalent to scientific theories like evolution. Intelligent design lacks empirical support and is often considered a philosophical or religious argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intelligent design" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across diverse sources, indicating its role in academic, news, and general discussions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intelligent design" is a grammatically sound noun phrase, primarily utilized in contexts involving science, news, and media. Ludwig confirms that this term is used to discuss the concept of creation by an intelligent agent, often in contrast to evolutionary theory. While the term sees frequent usage, especially in news and scientific outlets, Ludwig's examples indicate that it's important to consider the term's implications and avoid misrepresenting it as a fully accepted scientific theory. Furthermore, be mindful of the philosophical and religious contexts often associated with "intelligent design".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

creation by an intelligent agent

Clarifies that an intelligent entity is responsible for creating something.

intentional creation

Stresses the deliberate and planned aspect of the creation process.

agency-driven design

Emphasizes that the design is result of an agent doing the creation.

teleological design

Highlights the purpose or goal-oriented nature of the design.

specified complexity

Underscores that systems are both complex and correspond to an independently given pattern.

designed complexity

Focuses on the intricate and planned nature of the design, emphasizing its complexity.

purposeful creation

Emphasizes the intentionality behind the design, highlighting a deliberate act of creation.

non-random formation

Highlights the intentionality aspect of a creation rather than pure luck.

guided evolution

Suggests that evolutionary processes are being influenced or directed by a higher power.

divine design

Specifically attributes the design to a divine entity, adding a religious connotation.

FAQs

What is the main idea behind "intelligent design"?

The main idea is that certain complex features of the universe and living organisms are best explained by an intelligent cause, not undirected processes like natural selection.

How does "intelligent design" differ from the theory of evolution?

"Intelligent design" posits a deliberate creator, while the theory of evolution explains biological diversity through natural selection and genetic mutation over time. Evolution is a scientific theory, whereas intelligent design is not.

Is "intelligent design" a scientifically accepted theory?

No, "intelligent design" is not considered a scientifically accepted theory. It lacks empirical evidence and does not meet the criteria of scientific methodology.

What are some arguments against "intelligent design"?

Arguments against "intelligent design" include the lack of testable hypotheses, the absence of empirical evidence, and the fact that it relies on supernatural explanations rather than natural processes. Critics often view it as a form of creationism.