intelectual
een-teh-lek-too-AHL
/intelekˈtual/
As an adjective, 'intelectual' describes things related to the mind and the spark of new ideas.
intelectual(Adjective)
intellectual
?related to the mind and thinking
mental
?relating to brain activities
📝 In Action
La lectura es un gran ejercicio intelectual.
A2Reading is a great intellectual exercise.
Debemos proteger la propiedad intelectual de los artistas.
B2We must protect the intellectual property of artists.
El ajedrez es un juego muy intelectual.
B1Chess is a very intellectual game.
💡 Grammar Points
One Form for All
This word is the same for both men and women. You don't need to change the ending to 'a'—just say 'el reto intelectual' or 'la capacidad intelectual'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Don't confuse with 'inteligente'
Mistake: “Using 'intelectual' when you just mean someone is smart.”
Correction: Use 'inteligente' for general brain power, and 'intelectual' for things involving deep study or academic thought.
⭐ Usage Tips
Talking about work
Use this word when you want to distinguish 'desk work' or 'creative work' from physical labor.
As a noun, an 'intelectual' is a person who deeply values learning and the pursuit of knowledge.
intelectual(Noun)
intellectual
?a person who values the mind
thinker
?someone who focuses on ideas
,scholar
?an academic person
📝 In Action
Él es un intelectual muy respetado en su país.
B1He is a very respected intellectual in his country.
Muchos intelectuales firmaron la carta de protesta.
B2Many intellectuals signed the protest letter.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: intelectual
Question 1 of 2
How do you say 'intellectual property' in Spanish?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'intelectual' a compliment?
Usually, yes! It implies a person is deep, well-read, and thoughtful. However, in some contexts, it can be used to describe someone who thinks too much and doesn't take enough action.
Can I use 'intelectual' for a child?
It sounds a bit formal for a child. For a smart kid, 'listo' or 'inteligente' is much more natural.