What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
smarter
Example
She's smarter than most of her classmates and always gets top grades. [smarter: comparative form of smart]
Example
He's a smart guy who can come up with solutions to problems quickly. [smart: adjective]
intelligent
Example
She's an intelligent woman who has a PhD in physics. [intelligent: adjective]
Example
He's known for his intelligence and ability to solve difficult problems. [intelligence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intelligent is more commonly used than smarter in everyday language. Intelligent is a more general term that covers a wider range of contexts, while smarter is more specific and often used in a comparative sense.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between smarter and intelligent?
Intelligent is generally considered more formal than smarter. While smarter can be used in informal contexts, intelligent is often used in academic or professional settings.
