a smart cookie

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smart cookie" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is intelligent, quick-witted, or simply capable. For example: My niece is such a smart cookie; she graduated college at the age of 18.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

She looks like a smart cookie.

Independent

It's a smart cookie that doesn't quite rise.

The New Yorker

So who says he isn't a smart cookie?

The New York Times

On politics, Bill Clinton is still a smart cookie.

The New York Times

But Phil's current ball and chain, Sharon, is a smart cookie.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That's something you suspect Furler, clearly a smart cookie, may have realised.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Tapper was responding to Trump's recent praise of the Pyongyang dictator, whom the president called a "pretty smart cookie" and a leader he would be "honored" to meet.

Huffington Post

A tough, smart cookie: very much a public good.

The Guardian - Opinion

"She's a pretty smart cookie," said Richard Scott of Chappaqua.

The New York Times

(For his part, Trump told CBS late last month that he considered Kim a "pretty smart cookie").

The New Yorker

"Not only is she pretty, but she's also a really smart cookie," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a smart cookie" to describe someone you admire for their intelligence and quick thinking, particularly when you want to convey a sense of warmth and familiarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a smart cookie" in highly formal or academic writing. It is generally considered an informal expression and may not be appropriate for all audiences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smart cookie" functions as a noun phrase that serves as a compliment, attributing intelligence or cleverness to a person. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a common expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "a smart cookie" is a frequently used, informal way to describe someone intelligent or clever. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in "News & Media" contexts, it serves to convey admiration in a warm and familiar manner. While generally acceptable, caution is advised when employing it in formal or academic settings. Alternatives such as "an intelligent person" or "a clever individual" may be more appropriate depending on the context. Ultimately, understanding the nuances of this phrase helps writers use it effectively and avoid potential misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clever individual

Uses synonyms to describe someone with quick thinking and ingenuity.

a sharp mind

Focuses on the intellectual capacity of the person.

an intelligent person

Replaces the idiomatic expression with a more straightforward description.

an astute person

Highlights someone's ability to accurately assess situations and people.

a bright spark

Employs a different metaphor to indicate intelligence and wit.

a quick study

Refers to someone who learns new things rapidly and easily.

a brilliant thinker

Emphasizes the person's capacity for deep and innovative thought.

a resourceful person

Highlights the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

a wise head

Suggests experience and good judgment, not just intelligence.

a genius

Implies a very high level of intellectual ability.

FAQs

How can I use "a smart cookie" in a sentence?

You can use "a smart cookie" to describe someone intelligent or clever, like in the sentence, "She's a smart cookie; she always knows the answer!"

What's a more formal way to say "a smart cookie"?

For a more formal setting, you could use phrases like "an intelligent person", "a clever individual", or "an astute thinker" instead of "a smart cookie".

Is it okay to use "a smart cookie" in professional emails?

It depends on your relationship with the recipient. If you have a friendly and informal relationship, it might be acceptable. Otherwise, it's safer to use a more professional alternative like "a clever individual".

What is the origin of the idiom "a smart cookie"?

The exact origin is unclear, but it's thought to have emerged in the early 20th century in America. It's a playful way to describe someone intelligent, associating them with something desirable and pleasing.