ella es inteligente
/eʝa es intelixente/from spelling rules
In Spanish, the phrase 'she is smart' is translated as ella es inteligente.
The phrase is used to say that a female person has a high level of intelligence.
Which one should you use?
A common alternative is es lista, which translates to 'she is smart/clever'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Colombia, the phrase Ella es pilas. is used to say she is smart.
Did you know?
- If you use the word pilas to mean 'smart' in parts of Latin America, you are literally using the word for 'batteries'.
- While lista means 'smart', if you change the verb from ser to estar, the phrase está lista means 'she is ready'.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, a 'smart' person might be described as despierto, which literally means 'awake'.
Examples in context
- Ella es sumamente inteligente.She is extremely smart.
- Ella es lista como un zorro.She is smart as a fox.
- No te preocupes, ella es inteligente.Don't worry, she is smart.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are discussing a colleague's ability to solve a problem.
- Elena¿Crees que ella podrá resolver el problema?Do you think she will be able to solve the problem?
- JavierSí, porque ella es inteligente.Yes, because she is smart.
- ElenaTienes razón, es muy capaz.You are right, she is very capable.
- JavierConfío mucho en su trabajo.I trust her work a lot.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
