a clever detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clever detail" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific aspect of something that is particularly smart or insightful, often in the context of design, writing, or storytelling. Example: "The author included a clever detail in the plot that made the ending much more satisfying."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The similarities between Jon's Season 7 cloak ― which features a natural pattern of brown-and-black fur, compared to his past all-black getups ― is an especially clever detail considering the parallels between Jon and Mance Rayder (Ciarán Hinds) in the storyline itself. .

Huffington Post

The similarities between Jon's Season 7 cloak ― which features a natural pattern of brown-and-black fur, compared to his past all-black getups ― is an especially clever detail considering the parallels between Jon and Mance Rayder (Ciarán Hinds) in the storyline itself.

HuffPost

One particularly clever detail is a small storage compartment directly behind the console-mounted navigation screen.

The New York Times

McGregor's choreography comes saturated with small clever detail and an intriguing layering of classical and contemporary styles.

The Guardian

As this volume, like its predecessors, attests, Ms. Rowling has imagined this universe in such minute and clever detail that we feel that we've been admitted to a looking-glass world as palpable as Tolkien's Middle Earth or L. Frank Baum's Oz.

The New York Times

Jamison's choreography is crammed with clever detail, her groupings are inventive, the dancing superb.

The Guardian

The innovative carriers are focusing on the clever detail, the small but unexpected treat which like those Turkish luminaries, can warm up the passenger experience just as well, if not better, than high wattage promises that dim in the delivery.

Huffington Post

One minute he'll be discussing The League Of Gentlemen – how they're "the finest comedy actors of their generation," analyzing in clever detail the ways in which original radio show was more macabre than the eventual TV series.

Vice

Chock-full of clever details, like a zebra-striped condom and a mesmerizing surprise ending, this (safe for work) pornographic short is something that Burton himself could maybe approve of.

Huffington Post

"They seemed to have gone from being very ad hoc to very carefully formed," says Mull. "They are simple structures – wooden frames on a pallet base, wrapped in tarpaulins – but there were clever details to stop the nails from pulling out of the fabric: a bottle-top detail here, a cardboard detail there".

The Guardian - Arts

Some tours take visitors inside a model two-bedroom apartment furnished in 1967, revealing clever details like how each apartment's balcony is set slightly higher than floor level, so as not to obstruct light and views of the unit below.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clever detail" to specifically highlight an element of design, writing, or strategy that demonstrates intelligence, wit, or ingenuity. It works best when pointing out something that might be easily overlooked but is particularly effective.

Common error

Avoid using "a clever detail" to describe every minor feature. Reserve it for instances where the detail truly adds significant value or demonstrates exceptional insight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever detail" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by an adjective ("clever"). It highlights a specific element or aspect recognized for its ingenuity or intelligence. Since Ludwig does not provide examples for an exact match of "a clever detail", we are relying on general understanding of phrase function.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a clever detail" is used to highlight a specific element recognized for its ingenuity or intelligence. While Ludwig's AI confirms the phrase as grammatically correct and usable, there are currently no direct matches for the exact phrase in Ludwig's database. This suggests that, the concept is valid, but specific phrase combination is infrequently found in the indexed corpus. The phrase is suitable for various contexts, from describing design elements to strategic decisions. When using "a clever detail", ensure that the highlighted aspect truly demonstrates ingenuity to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ingenious feature

Replaces 'clever detail' with 'ingenious feature', emphasizing inventiveness and smart design.

a smart element

Substitutes 'clever detail' with 'smart element', focusing on the intelligence and efficiency of the component.

a brilliant touch

Replaces 'clever detail' with 'brilliant touch', highlighting the exceptional and impressive quality of the detail.

a witty addition

Substitutes 'clever detail' with 'witty addition', emphasizing the humorous and intelligent nature of the detail.

an astute aspect

Replaces 'clever detail' with 'astute aspect', focusing on the insightful and perceptive quality of the detail.

a canny nuance

Substitutes 'clever detail' with 'canny nuance', highlighting the subtle yet shrewd nature of the detail.

a resourceful component

Replaces 'clever detail' with 'resourceful component', emphasizing the efficient and creative use of resources in the detail.

an inventive particularity

Substitutes 'clever detail' with 'inventive particularity', highlighting the innovative and unique nature of the detail.

a strategic refinement

Replaces 'clever detail' with 'strategic refinement', focusing on the detail's contribution to a broader strategic goal.

a sagacious point

Substitutes 'clever detail' with 'sagacious point', emphasizing the wise and discerning quality of the detail.

FAQs

How can I use "a clever detail" in a sentence?

You can use "a clever detail" to describe a smart or ingenious element in a design, plan, or piece of writing. For example, "The author included "a clever detail" in the plot that made the ending much more satisfying."

What are some alternatives to "a clever detail"?

Alternatives include "an ingenious feature", "a smart element", or "a brilliant touch", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a detail 'clever'?

A 'clever' detail is one that is intelligently designed, often subtle, and contributes significantly to the overall effectiveness or appeal of something. It demonstrates ingenuity and insight.

In what contexts is "a clever detail" most appropriately used?

"A clever detail" is suitable in contexts discussing design, writing, strategy, or any area where ingenuity and smart thinking are valued. It's often used in reviews, analyses, or discussions of creative works.