Intelligence: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to the ability to learn, understand, and make judgments or have opinions that are based on reason.

• Her intelligence is evident from her quick problem-solving skills
• The intelligence of dolphins is remarkable

This term is best used in academic or scientific contexts, referring to the mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses.

• Researchers study how cognition is affected by sleep deprivation
• Cognitive development is essential in a child's growth

Use this word to describe a person's high level of intelligence, especially concerning their capacity for critical thought, reasoning, and understanding complex ideas.

• Albert Einstein is often celebrated for his extraordinary intellect
• She is known for her sharp intellect and analytical skills

This word is general and versatile, often used to refer to the element of a person that enables them to be aware of the world, their experiences, to think, and to feel. It can also be used in a more poetic or philosophical context.

• Meditation can help calm the mind
• He has a curious mind, always eager to learn new things

When referred to in a military or governmental context, it denotes secret or classified information collected about an enemy or potential threat.

• Military intelligence revealed the location of the enemy.

Describes processed or organized data that has meaning and can be used for decision-making.

• Can you provide me with the latest information on the project?
• The report contains valuable information for the investors.

Refers to raw facts and figures that can be analyzed to generate useful information.

• The data from the experiment needs to be carefully analyzed.
• We are collecting data on customer preferences.

A document or spoken account that provides information on a specific topic, often used in formal or professional settings.

• She submitted her weekly report to the manager.
• The weather report predicts heavy rain tomorrow.

Typically redundant here, but still refers to human mental capabilities if discussing personal or general mental abilities.

• His intelligence sets him apart from his peers
• Developing one's intelligence requires continuous learning

Short for Artificial Intelligence, used when discussing computer systems that can perform tasks that usually require human intelligence. Common in technology and science topics.

• AI is transforming how we interact with technology
• The new AI algorithm can recognize speech with high accuracy

Refers to a subset of AI, where systems learn from data and improve over time without explicit programming. Often used in discussions about data science and predictive modeling.

• The company uses machine learning to predict customer behavior
• Machine learning algorithms have improved the accuracy of email filtering

Refers to using technology to perform tasks without human intervention. Common in contexts related to manufacturing, business processes, and software.

• Automation has increased efficiency in the factory
• Many repetitive tasks in the office have been replaced by automation