intelligent
intelligent 30 सेकंड में
- Intelligent means smart or clever in French.
- It must agree in gender and number: intelligent(e)(s).
- It usually follows the noun it describes.
- It is used for people, animals, and modern technology.
The French word intelligent is a cornerstone of describing cognitive ability and discernment. Rooted in the Latin intelligere (to understand), it encompasses more than just raw IQ; it suggests a capacity for logic, problem-solving, and adaptability. In French culture, being 'intelligent' is highly valued, often associated with the Cartesian tradition of clear and distinct reasoning. Unlike some English nuances where 'smart' might imply 'street smarts,' the French intelligent often leans towards analytical and academic prowess, though it is versatile enough for everyday use.
- Etymological Root
- From Latin 'inter' (between) and 'legere' (to choose/read), implying the ability to choose between options or read between the lines.
- Cultural Weight
- Reflects the French emphasis on 'l'esprit' (the mind/spirit) and intellectual rigor.
- Grammatical Gender
- Masculine: intelligent | Feminine: intelligente.
"C'est un enfant très intelligent qui comprend tout tout de suite."
When we talk about intelligence in French, we often distinguish between 'l'intelligence du cœur' (emotional intelligence) and 'l'intelligence pure' (logic). The word is an adjective, meaning it must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. For example, 'une solution intelligente' or 'des hommes intelligents'. It is a 'true friend' (vrai ami) to English speakers, as the meaning is almost identical, making it an easy win for A2 learners.
"Elle a pris une décision intelligente pour sa carrière."
Beyond humans, the word is increasingly used in technology. 'L'intelligence artificielle' (AI) is a ubiquitous term. We also speak of 'objets intelligents' (smart objects/IoT). This shows the word's evolution from purely human cognition to mechanical and digital processing power. In a social context, calling someone 'intelligent' is a high compliment, suggesting they possess 'de la jugeote' (common sense) as well as 'du savoir' (knowledge).
"Le système de chauffage intelligent permet d'économiser de l'énergie."
"Il n'est pas seulement intelligent, il est aussi très sage."
"C'est une analyse très intelligente de la situation actuelle."
- Synonym Nuance
- 'Malin' is more 'cunning/sly', while 'Intelligent' is more 'intellectual'.
- Opposite
- 'Bête' or 'Stupide' are the direct antonyms.
Using 'intelligent' correctly involves mastering adjective agreement and placement. In French, adjectives are the 'chameleons' of the sentence—they change their ending to match the noun they describe. For 'intelligent', you have four possible forms: intelligent (masculine singular), intelligente (feminine singular), intelligents (masculine plural), and intelligentes (feminine plural). This is a fundamental rule that separates beginners from intermediate speakers.
- Placement
- Usually follows the noun: 'Un chien intelligent'.
- Adverbial Form
- 'Intelligemment' (intelligently).
- Comparatives
- 'Plus intelligent que...' (Smarter than...).
When describing a person's character, 'intelligent' is often paired with intensifiers. You might say someone is 'extrêmement intelligent' or 'brillamment intelligent'. In professional settings, it is common to describe a 'travail intelligent' (smart work) or a 'stratégie intelligente'. Note that 'intelligent' can also describe an action or a choice, not just a person. For example, 'C'est intelligent de faire ça' (It's smart to do that).
"Ces filles sont très intelligentes et travaillent dur."
In the context of the CEFR A2 level, you should focus on simple subject-verb-adjective structures. 'Il est intelligent' or 'Ma sœur est intelligente'. As you progress to B1 and B2, you will start using it in more complex clauses: 'Bien qu'il soit intelligent, il a échoué à l'examen' (Although he is smart, he failed the exam). The word also appears in many compound nouns in modern French, particularly in tech and urban planning, such as 'la ville intelligente' (smart city).
"Nous devons trouver une façon intelligente de gérer nos déchets."
You will encounter 'intelligent' in a wide variety of contexts, from the classroom to the boardroom. In French schools, teachers might use it to praise a student's reasoning: 'C'est une réponse très intelligente'. In the workplace, it's used to describe efficient processes or clever colleagues. Interestingly, French media uses it frequently when discussing social issues or political strategies, often debating whether a policy is 'intelligente' or simply 'populiste'.
- Media & News
- Discussions on 'L'intelligence artificielle' (AI) are daily occurrences.
- Pop Culture
- Movies often feature 'le génie intelligent' or the 'méchant intelligent'.
- Daily Life
- Complimenting friends or discussing the 'smart' features of a new phone.
"Le film propose une réflexion intelligente sur la solitude."
In casual conversation, you might hear the slang 'fûté' or 'débrouillard', but 'intelligent' remains the standard, respectful term. On French TV talk shows (which are very popular), pundits often use 'intelligent' to validate an opponent's point before countering it: 'C'est un argument intelligent, mais...' (That's a smart argument, but...). This demonstrates the word's role in the 'joute oratoire' (verbal fencing) that is so central to French public life.
One of the most common mistakes for English speakers is forgetting the gender agreement. Because 'intelligent' looks exactly like the English word, learners often treat it as invariable. Remember: La femme est intelligente (add the 'e'!). Another mistake is the pronunciation of the masculine form. Many learners want to pronounce the 't' at the end of 'intelligent' because they do so in English. In French, the final 't' is silent unless followed by a vowel or in the feminine form.
- Agreement Error
- Saying 'Elle est intelligent' instead of 'Elle est intelligente'.
- Pronunciation Error
- Pronouncing the 't' in 'Un garçon intelligent'.
- False Friend Confusion
- Confusing 'intelligent' with 'spirituel' (which means witty, not just smart).
"Attention : on ne dit pas 'une intelligent idée', mais 'une idée intelligente'."
Another nuance is the difference between 'intelligent' and 'instruit' (educated). Someone can be highly 'intelligent' without being 'instruit', and vice versa. Using 'intelligent' to mean 'polite' or 'well-behaved' (as in some archaic English uses) is also incorrect in French; for that, use 'sage'. Finally, avoid overusing 'intelligent' when 'malin' (clever/tricky) or 'astucieux' (resourceful) might be more precise for the situation.
French has a rich vocabulary for the mind. While 'intelligent' is the general term, other words offer specific shades of meaning. Brillant suggests a high level of intelligence that stands out. Sage often implies wisdom or being well-behaved. Malin is used for someone who is clever in a practical, sometimes slightly mischievous way. Astucieux is perfect for someone who finds clever solutions to technical or practical problems.
- Brillant
- Excellence, often academic or professional.
- Malin
- Cunning, street-smart, or 'crafty'.
- Cultivé
- Well-read, knowledgeable about culture.
"Il est très astucieux ; il a réparé la machine avec un simple trombone."
For more formal contexts, you might use perspicace (perceptive) or lucide (clear-sighted). If you want to describe someone who is very quick-witted, vif (literally 'alive' or 'quick') is a great choice. In contrast, ingénieux is used for someone who is inventive. Understanding these synonyms helps you avoid repeating 'intelligent' and makes your French sound more natural and sophisticated.
How Formal Is It?
कठिनाई स्तर
ज़रूरी व्याकरण
Adjective agreement
Adjective placement
Comparatives and Superlatives
Adverb formation (-ment)
Liaison with silent consonants
स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण
Il est très intelligent.
He is very smart.
Masculine singular.
Elle est intelligente.
She is smart.
Feminine singular (add -e).
Tu es intelligent !
You are smart!
Informal 'tu'.
C'est un chat intelligent.
It's a smart cat.
Adjective after the noun.
Ils sont intelligents.
They are smart.
Masculine plural (add -s).
Elles sont intelligentes.
They (f) are smart.
Feminine plural (add -es).
Mon ami est intelligent.
My friend is smart.
Possessive 'mon' + masculine noun.
C'est intelligent.
That's smart.
Using 'C'est' for a general idea.
Il est plus intelligent que moi.
He is smarter than me.
Comparative 'plus... que'.
C'est une fille très intelligente.
She is a very smart girl.
Adjective agreement with 'fille'.
J'ai un téléphone intelligent.
I have a smartphone.
Literal translation of smartphone.
C'est une décision intelligente.
It's a smart decision.
Abstract noun agreement.
Elle n'est pas très intelligente.
She is not very smart.
Negation 'ne... pas'.
Nous sommes tous intelligents.
We are all smart.
Plural agreement.
C'est l'élève le plus intelligent.
He is the smartest student.
Superlative 'le plus'.
Elle travaille de façon intelligente.
She works in a smart way.
Using 'de façon' + adjective.
L'intelligence artificielle change le monde.
Artificial intelligence is changing the world.
Noun form 'intelligence'.
Il a répondu très intelligemment.
He answered very intelligently.
Adverbial form.
Je cherche une solution intelligente à ce problème.
I am looking for a smart solution to this problem.
Agreement with 'solution'.
C'est un homme brillant et intelligent.
He is a brilliant and smart man.
Using multiple adjectives.
Elle est assez intelligente pour comprendre.
She is smart enough to understand.
Structure 'assez... pour'.
Il est moins intelligent qu'il n'en a l'air.
He is less smart than he looks.
Comparative 'moins... que'.
C'est une utilisation intelligente de l'espace.
It's a smart use of space.
Noun phrase.
Il faut être intelligent pour réussir ici.
One must be smart to succeed here.
Impersonal 'il faut'.
Son analyse est particulièrement intelligente.
His/her analysis is particularly intelligent.
Adverb 'particulièrement' modifying the adjective.
Elle a su gérer la crise de manière intelligente.
She knew how to manage the crisis in a smart way.
Phrase 'de manière intelligente'.
C'est un débat intelligent sur l'avenir.
It's an intelligent debate about the future.
Describing an abstract event.
Il est d'une intelligence rare.
He possesses a rare intelligence.
Using the noun with a prepositional phrase.
L'investissement intelligent rapporte toujours.
Smart investment always pays off.
Financial context.
Elle est trop intelligente pour se faire piéger.
She is too smart to be tricked.
Structure 'trop... pour'.
C'est une remarque très intelligente de ta part.
That's a very smart remark on your part.
Phrase 'de ta part'.
Le design intelligent allie forme et fonction.
Intelligent design combines form and function.
Design/Art context.
Sa prose est fine et intelligente.
His/her prose is subtle and intelligent.
Literary description.
L'intelligence émotionnelle est cruciale en entreprise.
Emotional intelligence is crucial in business.
Specific psychological term.
Il a agi avec une intelligence remarquable.
He acted with remarkable intelligence.
Noun + adjective.
C'est un film qui traite le spectateur comme un être intelligent.
It's a film that treats the viewer as an intelligent being.
Complex sentence structure.
L'intelligence collective permet de résoudre des problèmes complexes.
Collective intelligence allows for solving complex problems.
Sociological term.
Il est doté d'un esprit vif et intelligent.
He is endowed with a quick and intelligent mind.
Formal expression 'doté de'.
Une gestion intelligente de la ville réduit la pollution.
Smart city management reduces pollution.
Urban planning context.
Son discours était à la fois intelligent et émouvant.
His/her speech was both intelligent and moving.
Correlative 'à la fois... et'.
L'intelligence n'est pas une donnée brute, mais un processus.
Intelligence is not a raw datum, but a process.
Philosophical statement.
Elle manie l'ironie avec une intelligence redoutable.
She wields irony with formidable intelligence.
Advanced vocabulary 'redoutable'.
L'œuvre témoigne d'une intelligence compositionnelle hors pair.
The work bears witness to unparalleled compositional intelligence.
Formal/Academic register.
Il serait peu intelligent de négliger ces facteurs.
It would be unwise (lit. little intelligent) to neglect these factors.
Litotes/Understatement.
L'intelligence des situations lui permet de s'adapter partout.
His/her situational intelligence allows him/her to adapt everywhere.
Nuanced noun usage.
C'est un texte dense, intelligent, qui demande plusieurs lectures.
It's a dense, intelligent text that requires several readings.
Descriptive list of adjectives.
L'intelligence artificielle forte reste un horizon lointain.
Strong AI remains a distant horizon.
Technical/Scientific nuance.
Par une manœuvre intelligente, il a évité le conflit.
Through a smart maneuver, he avoided the conflict.
Prepositional phrase 'par une...'
सामान्य शब्द संयोजन
सामान्य वाक्यांश
अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है
मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ
आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले
वाक्य संरचनाएँ
इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें
Intelligent is more formal than 'malin'.
Highly valued in French intellectual circles.
Used for 'smart' devices.
- Forgetting the 'e' in 'Elle est intelligente'.
- Pronouncing the 't' in 'Il est intelligent'.
- Placing it before the noun: 'Un intelligent homme' (Wrong).
- Using 'intelligent' when you mean 'well-behaved' (Use 'sage').
- Forgetting the 's' in the plural: 'Ils sont intelligent' (Wrong).
सुझाव
Agreement
Always check the noun's gender before writing 'intelligent' or 'intelligente'.
Silent T
Keep the 't' silent for men, say it for women. This is a common mistake.
Synonyms
Use 'malin' for street smarts and 'intelligent' for book smarts.
Compliments
Calling a French person 'intelligent' is often better than calling them 'beau/belle'.
Tech
Use it for 'smart' devices to sound modern and natural.
Adverbs
Use 'intelligemment' to vary your sentence structure in essays.
Liaison
Listen for 'Il est_intelligent' where the 't' of 'est' links to the 'i'.
Emphasis
Add 'très' before it to sound more enthusiastic.
Cognate
Leverage the fact that it's the same word as in English to build confidence.
Variety
Don't use it every time; try 'brillant' or 'perspicace' for variety.
याद करें
शब्द की उत्पत्ति
Latin
सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ
The 'Baccalauréat' exam tests this quality.
The 'French Tech' movement and smart cities.
Descartes and the emphasis on logic.
असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें
वास्तविक संदर्भ
बातचीत की शुरुआत
"Est-ce que tu penses que les animaux sont intelligents ?"
"Qui est la personne la plus intelligente que tu connaisses ?"
"Est-ce que l'intelligence artificielle te fait peur ?"
"Est-ce qu'il est plus important d'être intelligent ou travailleur ?"
"Quel est le choix le plus intelligent que tu as fait ?"
डायरी विषय
Décris une personne intelligente que tu admires.
Qu'est-ce que l'intelligence pour toi ?
Raconte une fois où tu as pris une décision intelligente.
Est-ce que les notes à l'école montrent si on est intelligent ?
Imagine une ville intelligente du futur.
अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल
10 सवालYes, they are cognates and share the same basic meaning of having mental capacity. However, French requires gender agreement.
Only in the feminine form (intelligente) or if there is a liaison with a following vowel.
It almost always goes after the noun: 'un enfant intelligent'.
It is 'intelligente'. You add an 'e' to the end.
The adverb is 'intelligemment'.
Yes, it is very common to describe pets or wild animals as intelligent.
Yes, it is a very high compliment in French culture.
The most common opposites are 'bête' or 'stupide'.
Use 'plus intelligent que'.
Yes, like 'un téléphone intelligent' or 'l'intelligence artificielle'.
खुद को परखो 180 सवाल
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'intelligent' is a versatile adjective in French that describes cognitive ability, smart choices, and advanced technology. Always remember to add an 'e' for feminine nouns and an 's' for plural ones.
- Intelligent means smart or clever in French.
- It must agree in gender and number: intelligent(e)(s).
- It usually follows the noun it describes.
- It is used for people, animals, and modern technology.
Agreement
Always check the noun's gender before writing 'intelligent' or 'intelligente'.
Silent T
Keep the 't' silent for men, say it for women. This is a common mistake.
Synonyms
Use 'malin' for street smarts and 'intelligent' for book smarts.
Compliments
Calling a French person 'intelligent' is often better than calling them 'beau/belle'.
संबंधित सामग्री
यह शब्द अन्य भाषाओं में
general के और शब्द
à cause de
A2एक पूर्वसर्ग वाक्यांश जिसका उपयोग किसी घटना के कारण को बताने के लिए किया जाता है, विशेष रूप से नकारात्मक या तटस्थ संदर्भ में। इसका अर्थ है 'के कारण' ।
à côté
A2के बगल में; के पास।
à côté de
A2Next to, beside.
À droite
A2दाईं ओर या दाहिने हाथ की तरफ। उदाहरण: 'अगले कोने पर दाईं ओर मुड़ें' ।
À gauche
A2To the left; on the left side.
à la
A2पूर्वसर्ग 'à' और स्त्रीलिंग लेख 'la' का संयोजन, जिसका अर्थ है 'को' या 'पर' ।
à laquelle
B2To which; at which (feminine singular).
à mesure que
B2जैसे-जैसे; अनुपात में।
abrégé
B1An abstract, summary, or abridgment.
absence
A2The state of being away from a place or person.