a clever stroke

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clever stroke" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a smart or ingenious action or decision that achieves a desired outcome. Example: "The CEO's decision to pivot the company's strategy was a clever stroke that ultimately led to increased profits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It was hailed as a clever stroke.

The Economist

But it turned out to be a clever stroke.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Some are claiming that the United States handover of authority in Iraq two days early is a clever political stroke.

The New York Times

Versions of this line were repeated around Paris as a clever rhetorical stroke, but in it were signs of what Berenson's keen-eyed wife saw as her husband's emerging difficulties.

The New Yorker

The brilliant stroke in the new Bush memoir, and the clever stroke with Bush's lead off interview and the photo accompanying NBC's lead article, was to use the first day of the re-introduction to highlight Dubya's recounting of how he drove his mother to the hospital while she was holding her miscarried fetus in a jar.

Huffington Post

She sapped the clever strokes right out of Hingis.

The New York Times - Sports

The cleverest stroke in the exhibition comes last, a wall that looks like an open, upended chocolate box, inflated to giant proportions.

The New York Times - Arts

"You're such a clever person," Dujardin said, stroking her brown back.

The New Yorker

She claimed her first after only three minutes, stroking in from Kate Walsh's pass, before Macarena Ronsisvalli equalised with a clever chip.

BBC

Updated at 2.40pm GMT 2.34pm GMT 23rd over: South Africa 40-3 (Amla 17, de Villiers 11) This is a clever move from Michael Clarke, who brings Steve Smith into the attack in an attempt to make South Africa play something resembling an aggressive stroke.

The Guardian - Sport

"She was a clever woman".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a particularly impressive or insightful action, use "a clever stroke" to emphasize its ingenuity and effectiveness in achieving a goal. It adds a touch of sophistication to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a clever stroke" in contexts where the action is merely lucky or accidental. It's best suited for situations where the action demonstrates genuine intelligence and foresight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever stroke" functions as a noun phrase that describes an action or decision. It emphasizes the intelligence and skill behind a particular move, highlighting its effectiveness in achieving a desired outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

11%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clever stroke" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes an action or decision characterized by intelligence and skill. Though its usage is rare, it's considered a neutral expression, suitable for various contexts, but most frequently found in "News & Media". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the ingenuity behind the action being described to avoid misinterpretation. Consider alternatives such as ""a smart move"" or ""an ingenious tactic"" to tailor the nuance to your specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a smart move

Replaces "stroke" with "move", focusing on the action as a strategic decision.

an ingenious tactic

Substitutes "clever" with "ingenious" and "stroke" with "tactic", highlighting the inventive nature of the action.

a brilliant idea

Focuses on the idea behind the action, emphasizing its exceptional quality.

an astute maneuver

Replaces "clever" with "astute" and "stroke" with "maneuver", suggesting a shrewd and skillful action.

a strategic play

Highlights the strategic aspect of the action, framing it as a calculated move.

a cunning plan

Emphasizes the element of trickery or shrewdness in the action.

a deft touch

Replaces "stroke" with "touch", highlighting the skill and finesse involved.

a masterly act

Emphasizes the expertise and skill demonstrated in the action.

a neat trick

Suggests a simple yet effective solution to a problem.

a sharp tactic

Highlights the incisiveness and effectiveness of the approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clever stroke" to describe an intelligent or skillful action that leads to a favorable outcome. For example, "Hiring a popular influencer was "a clever stroke" that significantly boosted the product's visibility".

What are some alternatives to "a clever stroke"?

Alternatives to "a clever stroke" include "a smart move", "an ingenious tactic", or "a brilliant idea", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a clever stroke" a formal or informal expression?

"A clever stroke" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, be mindful of your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "a clever stroke" and "a lucky break"?

"A clever stroke" implies intention and skill, while "a lucky break" suggests chance or good fortune. The former is a result of intelligence, whereas the latter is due to luck.