as clever as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as clever as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to make a comparison, indicating that someone or something possesses a level of cleverness equal to that of another person or thing. Example: "She is as clever as her brother when it comes to solving puzzles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Cleverness, particularly for someone as clever as David, is the hardest thing to give up.

The Guardian - Books

Or as clever as Melinda Messenger.

The Guardian - Sport

The analogy is as clever as it is flawed.

The New Yorker

He can seem half as clever as he really is.

The New Yorker

"I don't think I'm nearly as clever as her.

The Guardian - Books

The TLS called it "as clever as paint".

The Guardian - Books

"Buyers aren't as clever as people make out.

The Guardian - Business

But now I am six, I'm as clever as clever.

The New York Times

But how many readers are as clever as Poirot? 5.

The Guardian - Books

"He's sharp, but he's not as clever as Cameron".

The Guardian

"I'm not as clever as that," I admit.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as clever as", ensure the comparison is clear and relevant to the context. It's most effective when comparing specific skills or problem-solving abilities.

Common error

Avoid using "as clever as" in overly broad comparisons without specific context. For instance, saying "He is as clever as someone famous" is less impactful than saying "He is as clever as Einstein when it comes to theoretical physics".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as clever as" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to indicate that one subject possesses a similar degree of cleverness to another. As Ludwig examples suggest, it often appears in sentences to draw parallels in intelligence or ingenuity between two entities or ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as clever as" is a common and grammatically sound comparative phrase used to equate the cleverness of two subjects. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness. It finds primary use in News & Media, maintaining a generally neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is clear and relevant. Alternatives include "just as intelligent as" or "equally as smart as". "As clever as" serves as a testament to the power of precise language in effectively conveying nuanced comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just as intelligent as

Emphasizes intelligence as the primary attribute being compared.

equally as smart as

Uses "smart" as a more general synonym for clever.

as astute as

Highlights sharpness and insightfulness in the comparison.

as ingenious as

Focuses on the inventive and creative aspects of cleverness.

as sharp-witted as

Specifies quickness and agility of mind.

as resourceful as

Emphasizes the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

as cunning as

Suggests a sly or strategic form of cleverness.

as brilliant as

Implies a high degree of intelligence and talent.

as skilled as

Highlights competence and expertise.

as astute as

Emphasizes perceptiveness and shrewdness in the comparison.

FAQs

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

Use "as clever as" to compare the intelligence or ingenuity of two subjects. For example, "Her strategy was "as clever as" it was unexpected".

What phrases are similar to "as clever as"?

Similar phrases include "just as intelligent as", "equally as smart as", or "as astute as". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "as smart as" or "as clever as"?

Both "as smart as" and "as clever as" are acceptable, but "as clever as" often implies a specific instance of ingenuity or resourcefulness, while "as smart as" is a more general assessment of intelligence.

When is it appropriate to use "as cunning as" instead of "as clever as"?

Use "as cunning as" when you want to emphasize that someone is using deception or strategy to achieve a goal, whereas "as clever as" is a more neutral term for intelligence and quick-wittedness. For example, "His plan was "as cunning as" it was unethical".