Clever
What it means
Quick and inventive in understanding a problem or producing an effective solution.
Reach for it when praising mental agility with a practical or surprising result
A clever latch let wheelchair users open the gate with one hand.
Words to choose between 7
| playful | |
|---|---|
| everyday |
|
| warm | |
| professional | |
| formal | |
| literary |
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playful
Fits when verbal intelligence creates humor
Careful Wit narrows cleverness to expression and amusement.
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everyday
Fits when broad intelligence or a good decision is enough
Careful Smart is less specific about inventiveness and can also mean stylish.
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warm
Fits when limited materials were used effectively
Careful Resourcefulness concerns coping and means, not necessarily quick understanding.
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professional
Fits when the solution is unusually original and effective
Careful Reserve ingenious for more than a neat application of a familiar idea.
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professional
Fits when original creation deserves the emphasis
Careful An inventive idea may still miss the real problem or fail in practice.
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formal
Fits when sharp judgment about people or circumstances is central
Careful Astute can suggest strategic shrewdness rather than creative problem-solving.
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literary
Fits when shrewd practical calculation suits the tone
Careful Canny may imply self-interest that is absent from generous ingenuity.
Opposites 3
- foolish
- obtuse
- unimaginative
Common phrases 3
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clever solution
The clever solution reused the old frame instead of replacing it.
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clever idea
Marta's clever idea cut the queue without rushing anyone.
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clever use
A clever use of mirrors brought daylight into the corridor.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated