Synonyms for

Intellectuals

Verb / ˌɪntʌˈlektʃu:ʌlz / Another word for intellectuals — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Intellectuals are people who use their intellect or intelligence to study, think, and learn about a variety of subjects.

Synonyms & similar words

intellect intellectual thinkers scholars academics philosophers geniuses experts pundits savants brainiacs sages educators teachers professors doctors researchers scientists writers journalists

Synonyms by register

Formal

academics thinkers scholars intellectuals

Informal

eggheads brains nerds professors

Literary

sages luminaries cognoscenti

Antonyms

unintellectual unthinking unimaginative ignorant uneducated simpleton philistine

Common collocations

  • leading intellectuals
  • prominent intellectuals
  • intellectuals and artists
  • intellectuals from around the world
  • a group of intellectuals
  • intellectuals of the era
  • intellectuals and scientists

Word family

noun intellectualism
adjective intellectual
adverb intellectually

Usage note

The term 'intellectuals' often refers to people who engage in critical thinking and abstract thought, and it can sometimes carry a connotation of being detached from practical matters.

Example sentences

  1. The intellectuals at the conference discussed a wide range of topics.
  2. Many intellectuals believe in the power of education to change the world.
  3. She was considered an intellectual because of her vast knowledge of literature.
  4. The intellectuals of the Renaissance era made significant contributions to art and science.
  5. Intellectuals often challenge the status quo and push for change.

Quotes

  • An intellectual is someone whose mind watches itself. - Albert Camus
  • The most important function of the university in an age of reason is to protect reason from itself. - Allan Bloom
  • Intellectuals solve problems, geniuses prevent them. - Albert Einstein

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