Another Word for Intelligent: 9 Synonyms with Examples
“Intelligent” means able to learn, understand and think well. Synonyms differ in formality and in the kind of intelligence they suggest.
As an adjective: able to learn and understand well
- clever
- bright
- smart
- brilliant
- quick-witted
- sharp
- astute
- perceptive
- gifted
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- clever
- Everyday British equivalent; can also mean cunning.
- brilliant
- Exceptionally intelligent or talented.
- perceptive
- Notices and understands things others miss.
- gifted
- Having natural talent, often of children.
- quick-witted
- Thinks and responds fast, especially in conversation.
Example sentences
- clever: He came up with a clever solution.
- brilliant: She is a brilliant mathematician.
- perceptive: The review makes some perceptive points about the plot.
- gifted: The school runs a programme for gifted pupils.
- quick-witted: A quick-witted reply got a laugh from the audience.
Opposite of intelligent
- stupid
- unintelligent
- foolish
- slow
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “intelligent”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: healthy, levelheaded, sound, reasoning, thinking
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “intelligent”?
The most useful alternatives are “clever”, “bright”, “smart”, “brilliant”, “quick-witted”. For the main sense (able to learn and understand well), “clever” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “clever” and “brilliant”?
clever: Everyday British equivalent; can also mean cunning. brilliant: Exceptionally intelligent or talented.
What is the opposite of “intelligent”?
Common antonyms are “stupid”, “unintelligent”, “foolish”, “slow”.