they lack intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they lack intelligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals or groups who are perceived to have a deficiency in intellectual capacity or understanding. Example: "Some people believe that certain species of animals lack intelligence compared to others, but research often shows surprising cognitive abilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Not that they lack intelligence but that they are busy, tired or distracted.

The New Yorker

Donoghue shed light on these concerns in our chat, telling us, "I know exactly what you mean, but I'm afraid most readers aren't quite that 'thoughtful.' Not that they lack intelligence but that they are busy, tired, or distracted.

The New Yorker

They lack intelligence or even awareness of each other.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

When we stereotype or lazily assume low-wage workers to be "low skill," it reinforces an often unspoken and pernicious view that they lack intelligence and ambition, maybe even the potential to master "higher-order" skilled work.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

They take orders from a fragile and fractured government, and they lack intelligence-gathering capabilities and air power to ward off attacks.

Los Angeles Times

"Something about me looks like I lack intelligence," she said.

The New York Times

Existing approaches lack intelligence and individuation when providing a knowledge retrieval service via rules and cases.

Journal of Network and Computer Applications

Intelligence Gaps American officials admit they lack reliable intelligence about the resistance, even about its size.

The New York Times

Pakistani officials have said they lack good intelligence about the specific locations of Taliban leaders, assertions that some American intelligence operatives greet with some skepticism.

The New York Times

They are vulnerable, in part, because they lack actual intelligence.

MIT Technology Review

But the security forces wield overwhelming firepower, and while they have been unable to subdue the suburbs, some rebel fighters say they lack the intelligence information, arms and communication to advance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "they lack intelligence", ensure the context is clear and the statement is supported by evidence, avoiding generalizations or stereotypes. Be mindful of the potential for offense.

Common error

Avoid using "they lack intelligence" as a blanket statement about entire groups of people. Focus on specific skills or knowledge areas where improvement is needed, rather than making sweeping judgments about overall intellectual ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they lack intelligence" functions as a declarative statement expressing a perceived deficiency in intellectual capacity. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing individuals or groups considered to have insufficient understanding or cognitive skills. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they lack intelligence" is grammatically correct and used to express a perceived absence of intellectual capacity. Ludwig shows that this phrase appears in various contexts, including news, science, and general discourse, though it's relatively uncommon. While grammatically sound, this phrase can be insensitive, as pointed out by Ludwig AI. Consider using less direct alternatives, such as "they are not intelligent" or "their cognitive abilities are limited", especially in sensitive contexts, to avoid generalizations and maintain respectful communication. Always ensure that such statements are supported by evidence and avoid broad, unsubstantiated judgments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

They are not intelligent

A more direct and straightforward way of stating a lack of intelligence.

They possess limited intellect

Uses more formal vocabulary to express a reduced intellectual capacity.

Their cognitive abilities are limited

Focuses on cognitive functions rather than general intelligence.

Their mental capacity is low

Refers to the overall potential of their mental abilities.

They exhibit a lack of understanding

Emphasizes the absence of comprehension.

They struggle with cognitive tasks

Highlights difficulties in performing mental tasks.

They demonstrate poor reasoning skills

Focuses on a specific aspect of intelligence: reasoning.

They are slow learners

Describes a difficulty in acquiring new information.

They are mentally deficient

A more clinical and potentially offensive term for intellectual disability; use with caution.

They are intellectually challenged

A euphemistic way to describe intellectual disability; use with caution.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "they lack intelligence"?

It means that, in the speaker's opinion, the people being discussed do not possess a sufficient level of intellectual ability or understanding.

Is it appropriate to say "they lack intelligence"?

It depends on the context. The phrase can be considered offensive or insensitive, particularly when applied to entire groups of people. It's often better to focus on specific skills or knowledge gaps rather than making general statements about intelligence.

What are some alternatives to saying "they lack intelligence"?

You can use alternatives like "they are not intelligent", "they possess limited intellect", or "their cognitive abilities are limited" depending on the context.

How can I use "they lack intelligence" in a sentence?

For example, you might say, "Because they "they lack intelligence" on the subject, it's difficult to have a productive conversation with them about politics." However, consider whether a more specific and less judgmental statement would be more appropriate.