# intellectually

/ˌɪnəˈɫɛktʃuəɫi/ (US) · /ˌɪntəlˈɛktʃuːəli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/intellectually
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

in a way that relates to your mind and your ability to think and understand ideas. You use this when talking about mental activity rather than feelings or physical things.

For teachers: relating to the ability to think, reason, and understand complex ideas. Often used to distinguish mental processes from emotional or physical ones.

## Examples

- The book is intellectually challenging but very rewarding.
- While the job was physically easy, she found it intellectually draining because of the constant problem-solving required.
- The professor argued that while the theory was intellectually sound, it lacked the empirical evidence necessary to convince the broader scientific community.

## Usage notes

- Typically modifies adjectives or verbs related to mental effort; often placed before the adjective it modifies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.