# intelligent

/ˌɪnˈtɛɫədʒənt/ (US) · /ɪntˈɛlɪdʒənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/intelligent
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. smart and quick to learn

adjective · CEFR A2

having the ability to learn, understand, and think about things quickly.

For teachers: possessing a high degree of mental capacity or cognitive ability.

- She is an intelligent student who always asks very good questions in class.
- The candidate provided highly intelligent responses during the interview, demonstrating a deep understanding of the complex geopolitical issues at hand.

### 2. well thought-out

adjective · CEFR B2

showing good judgment or careful thinking.

For teachers: resulting from or showing sound reasoning and careful consideration.

- The company made an intelligent decision to invest in new technology early.
- The architect's intelligent use of space allowed the small apartment to feel open and airy despite its limited footprint.

### 3. smart technology

adjective · CEFR B1

describing a machine or program that can collect information and make its own decisions.

For teachers: referring to devices or software capable of autonomous data processing and adaptive response.

- The building has an intelligent heating system that adjusts the temperature automatically.
- Modern intelligent assistants rely on sophisticated algorithms to interpret natural language and anticipate user needs based on historical data.

## Examples

- She is an intelligent student who learns very quickly.
- Modern homes use intelligent thermostats that learn your schedule to save energy automatically.
- The debate over whether machines can truly be intelligent often hinges on whether we define the term as mere processing power or as genuine consciousness.

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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.