Do you think the definition of the word "stupid" is correct?

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Do you think the definition of the word "stupid" is correct?

vvoicu1987vvoicu1987 ✭
in Definitions of English words and phrases

STUPID: ADJECTIVE
Having or showing a great lack of intelligence or common sense.
‘I was stupid enough to think she was perfect’
‘how could she be so stupid?’
‘that is such a stupid question’

GREAT: ADJECTIVE
Of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above average.
‘the article was of great interest’
‘she showed great potential as an actor’

LACK: NOUN
The state of being without or not having enough of something.
‘there is no lack of entertainment aboard ship’
‘the case was dismissed for lack of evidence’

INTELLIGENCE: NOUN
The ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.
‘an eminent man of great intelligence’

Based on the definition of 'great', 'lack' and 'intelligence' I challenge the accuracy of the definition of 'stupid' and/or the examples in which it is used. What do you think?

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Answers

  • ok404ok404 ✭

    ok!

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  • steven_hardysteven_hardy ✭

    I don't disrecommend the definitions, it's used correctly.

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  • DavidCrosbieDavidCrosbie ✭✭✭

    Dictionary definitions do not set out to be accurate or inaccurate.
    They report on how words are actually used.

    What you omit from your first quotation is

    • a score of example sentence showing how stupid is used
    • more than a score of synonyms of unintelligent
    • a score of synonyms of foolish

    The second definition is supported by a similar number of example sentences showing how great is used

    Lack is a pretty straightforward word (and concept), so they think five examp[le sentences are enough. But they give over a score of synonyms.

    Intelligence is supported by similar numbers of example sentences and synonyms

    A dictionary is successful if it conveys the information as to word use to a particular group of readers. My personal judgement is that these four entries communicate pretty well to a wide range of native-speakers and non-native speakers.

    For a narrower readership of language learners, the COBUILD Dictionary offers:

    1. adjective
      If you say that someone or something is stupid, you mean that they show a lack of good judgment or intelligence and they are not at all sensible.

    For a more specialised reaedrship the OED offers

    3.
    a. Wanting in or slow of mental perception; lacking ordinary activity of mind; slow-witted, dull.

    as a heading to a list of examples showing how stupid in this particular sense has been used in writing from 1541 to 1849

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