a clever mix

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clever mix" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a combination of elements that are skillfully or intelligently blended together. Example: "The film is a clever mix of humor and drama, keeping the audience engaged throughout."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The rooms are a clever mix of antique palatial structure and luxurious modern furnishings.

The New York Times - Travel

They introduced a new voting system that severely limits fraud, using a clever mix of high-tech and low-tech.

The Economist

Their goal was to create alternative pop, a clever mix of Bob Mould's alienated sonics and Ray Davies's catchy hooks.

The New York Times

As finance minister, he steered through the Real Plan, a clever mix of budget cuts, a new currency and a mechanism to break entrenched inflationary expectations.

The Economist

A clever mix of classic thriller and cultural introspection – about, in this case, the pharmaceutical industry – it's another deft genre-blend from a man who defies categorisation.

The Guardian - Film

None more so than Online Caroline, a clever mix of Bridget Jones-style social comedy, anti-corporate satire and "woman in peril" drama updated for the net.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

It's a very clever mix of experiment and accessibility, and Liam Scarlett's No Man's Land is a perfect opener.

The Guardian

H-Farm is now an international hub of innovation, a unique model and clever mix of Italian tradition and true international entrepreneurial mindset that put in connection corporations and startups.

TechCrunch

Trance exchanged his blond Afro wig for a black one in "New Funkfoya," Mr. Jenkins's clever mix of jazz and street dance, also a showcase for the company.

The New York Times - Arts

And yet, here, beneath this pump's clever mix of media is a d'Orsay, essentially, that is extremely polite and pretty on the foot; a beautiful reconciliation between then and now.

The New York Times

The emphasis is on unusual, intelligent and topical selections of new titles to give the stock a clever, eclectic mix.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a product or concept, use "a clever mix" to highlight its innovative combination of features. For example, 'The new software is a clever mix of user-friendly design and powerful functionality.'

Common error

Avoid using "a clever mix" in overly casual or informal settings where simpler language might be more appropriate. Opt for phrases like "a good combination" or "a smart blend" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever mix" functions as a descriptive term, typically modifying a noun to indicate a skillful or intelligent combination of different elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a well-formed phrase. Examples show its use in describing various combinations, from architectural styles to financial strategies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A clever mix" is a versatile phrase used to describe an intelligent and effective combination of elements. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is grammatically sound and frequently appears in various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. It is a descriptor used to express skill and intention in bringing different things together. While appropriate for formal writing, avoid overusing it in overly casual contexts. Alternatives such as ""an ingenious blend"" or ""a smart combination"" can provide variety. Therefore, when you want to express that something is more than just a basic combination and want to highlight the intention and talent behind it, don't doubt using "a clever mix".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ingenious blend

Focuses on the inventive and skillful aspect of the combination.

a smart combination

Emphasizes the intelligence and practicality of the combination.

a skillful fusion

Highlights the expertise involved in merging the elements.

an artful blend

Suggests a refined and aesthetically pleasing combination.

a strategic amalgamation

Implies a deliberate and purposeful combination for a specific outcome.

a deft integration

Underscores the seamless and proficient merging of components.

a sophisticated synthesis

Indicates a complex and refined combination resulting in a new entity.

a brilliant merging

Highlights the exceptional intelligence and success of the combination.

a judicious combination

Emphasizes the careful and well-considered nature of the mixture.

a resourceful concoction

Suggests an inventive and effective combination using available resources.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clever mix" to describe something that combines different elements in an intelligent and effective way. For example, "The restaurant's menu is "a clever mix" of traditional and modern dishes".

What are some alternatives to "a clever mix"?

Some alternatives include "an ingenious blend", "a smart combination", or "a skillful fusion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a clever mix" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a clever mix" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing strategies, designs, or concepts that involve an intelligent combination of elements. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What distinguishes "a clever mix" from a simple combination?

"A clever mix" implies more than just a basic combination; it suggests that the elements are combined thoughtfully and intelligently to achieve a specific, often innovative, outcome. A simple combination might lack this element of ingenuity.