Harden Elkington
The capacity to acquire knowledge and abilities is the distinction between smart and intelligent.
Smart is a status or characteristic that can be earned by studying or learning anything, whereas intelligence is a trait that people are born with.
Smartness involves quick thinking, action, and the ability to solve problems that no one else can solve.
Intelligence is generally inherited at birth, and it is regarded as an inborn talent in many situations.
Keep reading with us to find out if you’re a clever or bright individual.
What is Smart?
Smart is an adjective that describes someone who has the capacity to acquire knowledge and abilities.
A smart person shows good judgment, good sensibility, and discernment in learning.
A smart person learns or does not entirely through experience; he or she can quickly plan out a solution to solve problems. Someone who is “smart” knows what they are talking about, has common sense, and is intelligent.
Characteristics of Smart People
The following are some characteristics of smart people:
- Smart people are good at learning
They show excellent judgment and discernment in learning. Smart people are knowledgeable about many things. They tend to be an expert in that field or subject.
- Smart people have a good sense of judgment
They are able to see beyond first appearances. Smarter people are able to focus on the essential points of what is being said or done.
- Lateral Thinking
Lateral thinking is a thought process that allows for greater possibilities. Lateral thinking does not look at things in a direct or conventional way, but it looks at the edges of the situation and finds creative solutions. Smart people always think of lateral ways to solve a problem.
- Smart people are usually good at math and science
This is because these subjects require linear thinking, which is a skill that smart people have.
- They have a large vocabulary
The more words a person knows, the better able they are to communicate their thoughts and ideas.
Smart people have a good command of language.
They can probably read faster than other people.
This is because smart people learn quickly from experience and practice, unlike intelligent people who learn lessons without effort.
- Smart people often have a good sense of humor
They know how to have fun and enjoy life. They don’t take things too seriously.
They are independent and able to concentrate when doing work.
Smart people know what they need to do in order to be successful. They set goals and accomplish them by working hard and smartly.
What is Intelligence?
Intelligence is a human trait, it’s inherited at birth.
These are the abilities to acquire knowledge quickly or through learning experiences.
A person who has intelligence can be educated or not. Intelligence shows itself in different ways like problem solving, creativity, reasoning, and understanding.
Intelligence is different from smartness in that intelligence is something a person has and develops over time, whereas smart people can be born with or without it.
Intelligence is not necessarily related to academic performance, the smartest students may not earn good grades and vice versa.
People who are highly intelligent often have difficulty expressing themselves verbally due to the number of thoughts that are going on in their heads at any given time.
They may also have difficulty socializing and making friends.
Signs of Intelligent People
The following are some signs that someone is intelligent:
- They are curious about the world around them
Intelligent people are always asking questions and trying to learn more. They are not afraid of change.
- They have a good memory
Intelligent people remember things easily because they take the time to process information. They are able to think critically and solve problems.
- They are able to focus for long periods of time
Intelligent people can concentrate on a task and not get distracted. They are able to think logically.
- They are procrastinate
Intelligent people tend to be procrastinators because they are perfectionists. They do not want to release their work until it is perfect, so they delay the project as long as possible.
- They can understand concepts easily
This means that intelligent people grasp ideas quickly and with ease. This also means that they learn new things more quickly than others.
- They can think outside the box
Intelligent people are creative and think outside the box in terms of their thoughts and actions. They try different methods in order to solve a problem or achieve a goal, unlike intelligent people who stick with what they know will work.
- They trust their instincts
Intelligent people trust their instincts, which often leads them to the right decision. Intelligent people are able to think on their feet and come up with a solution quickly.
- They are resourceful
Intelligent people are resourceful and know how to get things done. They are not afraid of hard work, and they will do whatever it takes to reach their goals.
- They are Introvert
Intelligent people are often introverts because they spend a lot of time inside their own heads. They may not be the life of the party, but they are certainly interesting to talk to.
- See also: What is the highest form of human intelligence
- See also: What role does genetics play in determining one’s intellect?
Differences between Smart and Intelligent
There are some differences between smart and intelligent people:
| Aspect | Intelligent People | Smart People |
| Personality | Tend to be shy and introverted |
Can be loud and extroverted
|
| Communication Style | Think before they speak |
Tend to speak before they think
|
| Origin of Traits | Inherited at birth |
Developed over time through learning
|
| Educational Background | Often associated with higher education levels |
Not necessarily dependent on formal education
|
| Natural Gift vs. Learned Skill | Intelligence is considered an inherited talent |
Smartness is viewed as a natural gift that aids in practical situations and emotional issues
|
| Measurement | Measured through IQ tests |
Capacity to adapt rapidly and make effective use of situations
|
| Problem-Solving Approach | In-depth knowledge and seeks efficient solutions |
Clever in action and quick in thought
|
Can You be Intelligent But Not Smart?
While often used interchangeably, being intelligent doesn’t necessarily mean being smart. Intelligence involves effectively using information for skillful thinking and decision-making while being smart is about enhancing the mind through learning and study.
Examples of being intelligent but not smart include:
- High IQ but low Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Some individuals may possess a high IQ but struggle with emotional intelligence, impacting their ability to perceive and process emotions effectively.
- Extensive knowledge but lacking common sense: Having a wealth of knowledge doesn’t always translate into having common sense or street smarts, which are skills honed through practical experience.
- Specialized knowledge without practical application: A person might excel in theoretical knowledge, such as calculating trajectories, but struggle to apply this knowledge effectively in practical situations.
- Subject expertise without coaching effectiveness: Knowing a lot about a particular subject doesn’t automatically make someone an effective coach. Coaching requires the application of knowledge and critical thinking in real-world scenarios.
Conclusion
In conclusion, intelligence and smartness are two different things.
Intelligence is something a person has and develops over time, whereas smart people can be born with or without it.
Intelligent people often have difficulty expressing themselves verbally due to the number of thoughts that are going on in their heads at any given time. They may also have difficulty socializing.
On the other hand, smart people are able to make quick decisions and connect with others.
However, both intelligent persons and smart people have the ability to learn faster than most other people in their age group.
That’s all about “What is The Difference Between Intelligence & Smartness?”.
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