a clever method

USAGE SUMMARY

"a clever method" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that requires skill or thought to bring about successful results. For example: "I implemented a clever method to complete the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The demonstration also showed a clever method for switching between software applications on the phone.

The New York Times

The consortium belatedly copied two of Dr. Venter's innovations, a clever method of linking DNA sequence data by "paired-end reads," and reliance on heavy-duty computing to assemble data.

The New York Times

A crystal with a strange property is at the heart of a clever method for inducing nuclear fusion in a tabletop-sized device.

Science Magazine

Note that, in the absence of spectral zeros, there exists a clever method to express the optimal ZFE, W ZFE-TD in terms of W ZFE-FD-EXT and a correction term of low complexity [19].

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Tonelli et al. [14] provide a clever method for accomplishing all three tasks in constant time, provided that the preference function is linear and the fitness is both uniform across all nodes and constant.

Computational Social Networks

Many qualitative responses reinforced this trend, with respondents writing that egao was "purely for fun" and to "bring happiness to their friends" and engage with a "fun spirit," while others stated that egao was a "clever method of circumvention" allowing netizens to "satirize [social] phenomenon".

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Using the Fermi glow is a "very clever method" to detect the bow shock, says Gary Zank, an astronomer at the University of Delaware, and Ben-Jaffel's team is the first to detect the interstellar magnetic field, he says.

Science Magazine

But the teams working airports specialize in a more clever method, he said.

The New York Times

The scientists used "a very clever method" to create the new material, says Eli Yablonovitch of the University of California, Los Angeles.

Science Magazine

While we can't condone these low-tech methods for evading the fare on MARTA, Atlanta's rapid transit system, there are a few clever methods here including the Macguyver and the Slider.

TechCrunch

The company is only two years old so there's plenty of room to grow but if you're redecorating your penthouse apartment in the sky you could do worse than mounting a few handsome photos using Fracture's clever method.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clever method" when you want to highlight the ingenuity or intelligence behind a particular approach or solution. It's suitable for describing problem-solving in various contexts, from scientific discoveries to everyday life hacks.

Common error

While versatile, "a clever method" might sound slightly formal in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "smart way" or "neat trick" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever method" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It describes a specific way of doing something, emphasizing the intelligence and ingenuity involved, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Science & Research

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a clever method" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an ingenious or intelligent approach to a problem or task. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and scientific contexts, the phrase carries a neutral to professional tone. Alternatives like "an ingenious technique" or "a smart strategy" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to reserve "a clever method" for situations where ingenuity is a key aspect, and consider simpler alternatives in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ingenious technique

Emphasizes the inventiveness and originality of the approach.

a smart strategy

Focuses on the intelligence and planning behind the approach.

a skillful tactic

Highlights the expertise and proficiency involved.

an artful approach

Suggests elegance and finesse in the execution.

a creative solution

Underscores the innovative and imaginative aspect.

an effective procedure

Highlights that the approach achieves the intended purpose

a resourceful way

Stresses the ability to overcome challenges using available means.

a brilliant scheme

Suggests an exceptional and well-conceived plan.

a sophisticated system

Highlights the complex and advanced nature.

a neat trick

Implies simplicity and efficiency.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clever method" to describe an approach that is both intelligent and effective. For example, "The engineer devised "a clever method" for reducing energy consumption."

What are some alternatives to "a clever method"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an ingenious technique", "a smart strategy", or "a skillful tactic".

Is "a clever method" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a clever method" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in academic or professional contexts where you need to describe an innovative or intelligent approach to a problem.

What distinguishes "a clever method" from a regular method?

"A clever method" implies that the method is not only effective but also demonstrates intelligence, ingenuity, or creativity. It suggests that the method is more than just a standard procedure; it involves a smart or innovative approach.