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Intellectuals: meaning, definitions and examples

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intellectuals

 

[ ˌɪnˌtelɪˈɡenʧuəlz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

highly educated individuals

Intellectuals are individuals who are highly educated and have a deep understanding of various subjects. They often engage in critical thinking, analysis, and research to contribute to the intellectual discourse of society. Intellectuals can be academics, writers, philosophers, scientists, or artists.

Synonyms

academics, scholars, thinkers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intellectuals

Generally emphasizes the intelligence and engagement in critical thinking or debate. It can describe people outside formal academic settings.

  • The book club included many prominent intellectuals who enjoyed deep discussions
scholars

Specifically points to individuals who have made significant contributions to research, usually within the realms of literature, history, or similar fields.

  • The ancient manuscripts were analyzed by scholars specializing in medieval studies
thinkers

Typically refers to people who engage in profound or philosophical thinking, and it can be used in both academic and informal settings.

  • Throughout history, great thinkers have shaped the way we understand the world
academics

Refers to those involved in the educational or scholarly environment, particularly at colleges and universities.

  • The conference attracted many leading academics from around the world

Examples of usage

  • Intellectuals play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing social change.
  • Many intellectuals use their knowledge and expertise to address complex issues facing society.

Translations

Translations of the word "intellectuals" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intelectuais

🇮🇳 बौद्धिक लोग

🇩🇪 Intellektuelle

🇮🇩 intelektual

🇺🇦 інтелектуали

🇵🇱 intelektualiści

🇯🇵 知識人

🇫🇷 intellectuels

🇪🇸 intelectuales

🇹🇷 entelektüeller

🇰🇷 지식인

🇸🇦 المثقفين

🇨🇿 intelektuálové

🇸🇰 intelektuáli

🇨🇳 知识分子

🇸🇮 intelektualci

🇮🇸 menntamenn

🇰🇿 интеллектуалдар

🇬🇪 ინტელექტუალები

🇦🇿 ziyalılar

🇲🇽 intelectuales

Etymology

The term 'intellectuals' originated in the 19th century and was used to describe individuals who were seen as the elite thinkers of society. Intellectuals have been instrumental in shaping political movements, cultural trends, and academic discourse throughout history.

See also: intellect, intellection, intellectual, intellectually, intelligible.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,694 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.