a smart man

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smart man" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a male individual who is intelligent or clever in various contexts, such as discussions about personal qualities or achievements. Example: "He is a smart man who always finds innovative solutions to complex problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He was a smart man.

Independent

"He's a smart man.

The Guardian - Film

"I'm a smart man," he said.

The New Yorker

He added: "Chip Kelly is a smart man.

The New York Times - Sports

Sheikh Mohammed is a smart man.

The Guardian

"This is a smart man," she said.

The New York Times

Now, Bellamy is a smart man.

The Guardian - Sport

"The mayor's a smart man," he said.

The New York Times

James is said to be a smart man.

The New York Times

A smart man in early middle-age (Scott Bakula) approaches.

The Guardian - Film

Matt Lauer is a smart man, a good man.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "a smart man", be specific about the type of intelligence or skills they possess. Instead of just stating they are smart, provide examples of their problem-solving abilities, strategic thinking, or knowledge in a particular field.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling someone as "a smart man" without providing any context or evidence. This can come across as shallow or unconvincing. Instead, illustrate their intelligence with concrete examples of their actions or accomplishments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smart man" primarily functions as a noun phrase that serves as a subject complement or an appositive, describing or identifying a male individual. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

7%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a smart man" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a male individual possessing intelligence and cleverness. Ludwig's AI affirms its correctness and applicability. The phrase is versatile, fitting seamlessly into various contexts, predominantly in News & Media. While synonyms such as "an intelligent man" or "a clever man" exist, the choice depends on the specific shade of meaning intended. When employing this phrase, be sure to provide context or examples to showcase the individual's intelligence effectively. Due to its simplicity and neutrality, it is suitable for a wide audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intelligent man

Replaces "smart" with a direct synonym, emphasizing intellectual capacity.

a clever man

Highlights quick-wittedness and ingenuity rather than overall intelligence.

a wise man

Suggests experience and good judgment in addition to intelligence.

a bright man

Implies intelligence combined with enthusiasm and potential.

an astute man

Focuses on keen observation and shrewdness in practical matters.

a knowledgeable man

Emphasizes the possession of information and expertise.

a resourceful man

Highlights the ability to find solutions and overcome obstacles.

an ingenious man

Focuses on inventiveness and creativity.

a sharp man

Conveys quickness of mind and perception.

a discerning man

Implies the ability to make fine distinctions and judgments.

FAQs

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

You can use "a smart man" to describe someone who exhibits intelligence, cleverness, or wisdom. For example, "He is "a smart man", always coming up with innovative solutions."

What are some alternatives to saying "a smart man"?

Alternatives include "an intelligent man", "a clever man", or "a wise man". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. For example, you could say "He is "an intelligent man" who excels in complex problem-solving".

Is it appropriate to use "a smart man" in formal writing?

Yes, it's generally acceptable, although in very formal contexts, you might prefer "an intelligent man" as it sounds slightly more refined. However, ""a smart man"" is widely used and understood.

What qualities typically define "a smart man"?

Qualities include intellectual ability, problem-solving skills, quick thinking, and the ability to learn and adapt. It often implies someone who is not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively. Ultimately, a "smart man" uses their intelligence to navigate complex situations.