What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bright
Example
She is a bright student and always gets top grades. [bright: adjective]
Example
The sun was shining brightly in the sky. [brightly: adverb]
intelligent
Example
He is an intelligent scientist who has made groundbreaking discoveries. [intelligent: adjective]
Example
The intelligent design of the building impressed everyone. [intelligent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intelligent is more commonly used than bright in everyday language. Intelligent is a widely recognized term that is used to describe someone's intellectual capabilities, while bright is less commonly used and has a broader range of meanings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bright and intelligent?
Both bright and intelligent can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, intelligent is generally considered more formal and is often used in academic or professional settings.