a clever idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clever idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an idea that is smart, inventive, or demonstrates ingenuity. Example: "The proposal to use recycled materials for the project was truly a clever idea that impressed everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"What a clever idea!

The New York Times

It's a clever idea.

The Guardian

Yet it is a clever idea.

The Economist

Instead, he has a clever idea.

The New York Times

It is undoubtedly a clever idea.

The Economist

A clever idea, neatly done.

The Guardian - Tech

"2Face" was built upon a clever idea.

The New York Times - Arts

Najer's 24... f5 was a clever idea.

The New York Times

So researchers had a clever idea.

The New York Times - Magazine

Concentrating on personal finance don'ts is a clever idea.

The New York Times

Every time he stared, a clever idea bloomed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clever idea" to positively acknowledge someone's ingenuity or intelligence in problem-solving or creative thinking. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling an idea as "a clever idea" without explaining why it is considered clever. Provide context or details to support your assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever idea" functions as a noun phrase that serves as the subject or object of a sentence, often to positively characterize a plan, suggestion, or innovation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's acceptability and frequent use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clever idea" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that serves to positively describe an intelligent or innovative concept. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While suitable for both formal and informal communication, it's important to provide context when using the phrase. Alternative expressions include "a brilliant concept" or "an ingenious plan". Remember to acknowledge ingenuity with supporting details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brilliant concept

Replaces 'clever' with 'brilliant', suggesting a higher degree of ingenuity and impressiveness.

an ingenious plan

Substitutes 'clever' with 'ingenious' and 'idea' with 'plan', implying a practical and inventive scheme.

a smart approach

Uses 'smart' instead of 'clever' and 'approach' for 'idea', indicating a practical and intelligent method.

a bright scheme

Replaces 'clever' with 'bright' and 'idea' with 'scheme', suggesting a promising and intelligent plan.

a creative solution

Substitutes 'clever' with 'creative' and 'idea' with 'solution', focusing on the inventive aspect of resolving a problem.

a resourceful strategy

Replaces 'clever' with 'resourceful' and 'idea' with 'strategy', highlighting the effective use of available means.

a cunning tactic

Uses 'cunning' instead of 'clever' and 'tactic' for 'idea', implying a shrewd and strategic move.

an innovative notion

Substitutes 'clever' with 'innovative' and 'idea' with 'notion', emphasizing the novelty and originality of the concept.

a shrewd design

Replaces 'clever' with 'shrewd' and 'idea' with 'design', suggesting a sharp and practical plan.

a novel concept

Uses 'novel' instead of 'clever' and 'concept' for 'idea', highlighting the new and original nature of the idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clever idea" to describe a plan, suggestion, or invention that is innovative and intelligent. For example, "Her solution to the problem was "a clever idea" that saved the company time and money."

What are some alternatives to saying "a clever idea"?

Some alternatives include "a smart concept", "an ingenious plan", or "a brilliant strategy", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a clever idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "a clever idea" is generally acceptable in formal writing, particularly when providing constructive feedback or acknowledging innovation. However, ensure your assessment is substantiated with details.

What's the difference between "a clever idea" and "a good idea"?

"A clever idea" implies ingenuity, innovation, or a particularly smart approach. In contrast, "a good idea" simply suggests that the idea is beneficial or useful, without necessarily being inventive.