a clever mind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clever mind" is grammatically correct and is commonly used in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is intelligent, quick-witted, and able to think creatively and solve problems. Example: "John's success in solving complex equations demonstrates his clever mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But a clever mind compensates for a lack of mobility and yesterday she produced the best result of her career to reach Wimbledon's last eight with a surprising win over Jelena Jankovic, her comfortable conqueror at Roland Garros and the form player this year.

The Guardian - Sport

Even though you don't have to be able to read music to write a great tune, one of the lessons that Bernstein's "Simple Song" teaches is that you need more than just a true heart and a clever mind to compose music of a calibre equal to the finest visual and literary art.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Time Freak," written and directed by Andrew Bowler, is a clever, mind-twisting comic vignette about a crude time machine.

The New York Times

It also might be the most helter-skelter, race-to-the-finish-line thriller you'll read all year, with such a clever, mind-boggling final twist that Sony's adaptation could just be worth it.

The Guardian - Books

"He's got a very clever mind for a striker.

BBC

A lover of literature, he possessed a warm and charming personality, clever mind and lived life his way until the end.

The New York Times

When a few clever minds managed to patch in their own multitouch support, proving that the hardware could handle it, things got even more perplexing.

TechCrunch

What it is is a bunch of little dishes from the clever mind of Jason Atherton, one of Ramsay's top chefs, a fellow in his 30's who's been deemed ready to go out on his own.

The New York Times - Travel

The comment is a wind-up, masking the malice of a "clever, meticulous mind".

Independent

Patten has a passion for public service, the encouraging charm of a good listener, a sharp, humane eye and a clever, particular mind.

The Guardian - Opinion

His clever mind is wandering unacceptably.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clever mind" to describe someone who demonstrates intelligence and ingenuity in problem-solving or creative endeavors. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a clever mind" when describing actions or ideas that are merely cunning or manipulative. "Clever" should primarily denote intelligence and resourcefulness, not deception.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever mind" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and is commonly used to describe someone intelligent and quick-witted.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clever mind" is a grammatically sound and moderately frequent phrase used to describe someone possessing intelligence, ingenuity, and resourcefulness. Ludwig confirms its correctness and general usage. While it appears most often in news and media, it is versatile enough for a range of contexts. Be mindful to use it when you mean intelligence, not just cunning. Alternatives such as "an intelligent mind" or "a sharp intellect" can offer subtle shifts in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intelligent mind

Replaces "clever" with a more general term for intelligence.

a sharp intellect

Substitutes both "clever" and "mind" with more formal synonyms.

a brilliant intellect

Emphasizes a higher degree of intelligence than "clever".

an astute mind

Conveys a sense of shrewdness and insight.

a quick-witted mind

Focuses on the speed and agility of thought.

a resourceful intellect

Highlights the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

an ingenious mind

Emphasizes inventiveness and creativity.

a gifted mind

Indicates a natural talent for intelligence.

a creative intellect

Highlights the capacity for original and imaginative thought.

a perceptive intellect

Focuses on the ability to understand and interpret subtle information.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clever mind" to describe someone who is intelligent and resourceful, such as, "Her success in the competition was due to "a clever mind" and dedication".

What are some synonyms for "a clever mind"?

Some synonyms for "a clever mind" include "an intelligent mind", "a sharp intellect", or "a brilliant intellect", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a clever mind" or "an intelligent mind"?

Both "a clever mind" and "an intelligent mind" are correct. "Clever" often implies resourcefulness and quick-wittedness, while "intelligent" is a more general term for mental capacity.

What's the difference between "a clever mind" and "a cunning mind"?

"A clever mind" suggests intelligence and ingenuity, while "a cunning mind" implies a manipulative and deceitful nature. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize intelligence or craftiness.