a clever technique

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clever technique" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a method or approach that is smart or innovative in achieving a particular goal. Example: "The author employed a clever technique to engage readers by using unexpected plot twists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

It is a clever technique on Lally's part.

The Guardian - Books

Many of us have encountered managers who think this is a clever technique.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a clever technique, one that depends more on suggestion than on elaboration and analysis.

The Guardian - Books

It's a clever technique, surely a homage to the real Fuentes, who enjoyed such structural games.

The Guardian

One year, the Montreal Boyz met a group of like-minded fans from Toronto who had perfected a clever technique for sneaking into pit lane.

The New York Times

They did this by using a clever technique — called man-in-the-mailbox — to exploit the natural trust shared by people who work together in organizations.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Your report about Europe's effort to curb automobile use ("Car Boom Puts Europe on Road to a Smoggy Future," news article, Jan . 7 did not mention a very clever technique used in Vienna to keep cars from the city center.

The New York Times

At scale, it's an incredibly clever technique to extend his brand on top of other peoples' pictures — the greatest photobomb at scale….ever!

TechCrunch

As far as his actual cop work goes, he uses the very clever technique of knowing a genius detective who doesn't even work for the police but will happily solve any case you're having trouble with.

The Guardian

There are really only a few main ideas, plus a handful of clever techniques to handle a few tricky situations that come up.

WikiHow

Visitors shouldn't hesitate to scoop up the little vial of DNA they will see on entering the exhibition -- real as it seems, it's just an image projected by a clever lensing technique.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex process, break it down into smaller, manageable steps to highlight how "a clever technique" is applied at each stage.

Common error

Avoid using "a clever technique" as a generic descriptor. Always specify what makes the technique clever and what problem it solves.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clever technique" functions as a noun phrase, where "clever" modifies the noun "technique". As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to describe methods that are intelligent or innovative. Examples show its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clever technique" is a commonly used phrase that describes an intelligent or innovative method for achieving a specific goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it is important to ensure that the context clearly indicates what makes the technique clever. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Science domains, indicating a neutral register suitable for general writing. Alternatives such as "an ingenious method" or "a smart approach" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ingenious method

Emphasizes inventiveness and resourcefulness in the approach.

a smart approach

Highlights the intelligence and practicality of the method.

a brilliant strategy

Stresses the exceptional quality and effectiveness of the plan.

an innovative solution

Focuses on the novelty and originality of the resolution.

a resourceful tactic

Underlines the ability to use available resources effectively.

a cunning plan

Implies a degree of shrewdness or deceptiveness in the strategy.

an artful maneuver

Highlights the skill and grace involved in the action.

a sophisticated method

Suggests a high degree of complexity and refinement.

an astute way

Emphasizes the sharp insight and perception involved.

a neat trick

Suggests a simple yet effective solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clever technique" to describe an innovative or smart method to solve a problem or achieve a goal. For instance, "The engineer used "a clever technique" to improve the efficiency of the engine".

What are some alternatives to "a clever technique"?

Alternatives include "an ingenious method", "a smart approach", or "a brilliant strategy", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "a clever technique"?

While generally acceptable, avoid using "a clever technique" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or technical language may be preferred. In those contexts, consider alternatives like "an innovative method" or "a sophisticated approach".

What makes "a clever technique" different from a simple solution?

"A clever technique" implies a degree of ingenuity and intelligence, suggesting that the method is not only effective but also demonstrates resourcefulness or innovation. A simple solution might be effective but lack the same level of inventiveness.