French word

intelligence

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛ̃teliʒɑ̃s/

Meaning

  • feminine nounintelligence

Example

Ce test mesure l'intelligence des enfants.

This test measures children's intelligence.

Illustration for intelligence (intelligence)

More examples

Il a fait preuve d'intelligence en résolvant le problème rapidement.

He showed intelligence by solving the problem quickly.

Core concept

A mind sorts and links information so that it can understand situations and solve problems.

Common phrases

  • faire preuve d'intelligence

    show intelligence

  • manque d'intelligence

    lack of intelligence

  • test d'intelligence

    intelligence test

Similar words

intellect: The ability to think logically and learn.
esprit: Quick, lively mental activity that produces ideas.
compréhension: The ability to understand the meaning of speech or writing.
savoir: Knowledge and facts gained through learning and experience.

Definition in French

Capacité à comprendre, apprendre et utiliser des informations pour résoudre des problèmes et s'adapter à de nouvelles situations.

Word origin

French inherited intelligence from Medieval Latin intelligentia, which derives from Latin intelligere, "to understand".

Usage tips

  • For a natural personal compliment, French often uses intelligent or intelligente, whereas intelligence sounds more abstract and formal.

Other meanings

  • intellectnoun
  • understandingnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word