clever deduction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clever deduction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a conclusion or inference that is made through intelligent reasoning or insight. Example: "Her clever deduction about the suspect's motive helped the detectives solve the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Clever deduction, eh?

The Guardian

It is tempting to push information to users based on a clever deduction, says Mr Ferrell, but it's better to be silent than wrong.

The Economist

A clever deduction at the start of The Norwood Builder enables him to immediately discern the culprit.

Huffington Post

The clever deduction was that if those conditions were favouring an epidermal phenotype for the teratoma cell line, same conditions might be beneficial for normal epidermal keratinocytes themselves.

Archives of Dermatological Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Possibilities had to be narrowed by statistical analysis and clever deductions before the Bombe could be used.

The New York Times - Arts

If one wants to get more specific about exactly what sort of people give how much and to what causes, the holes in the data must be filled with clever deductions and sophisticated survey techniques.

The New York Times

Hergé's plots for the 24 cartoon books about the boy reporter generally involve him stumbling on the truth rather than uncovering it through killer questions or clever deductions.

The Guardian

Sherlock Holmes is known for his ability to make clever deductions from the analysis of a heap of seemingly insignificant details.

Science Magazine

The mystery of who abducted and molested a 5-year-old girl 11 days ago does not look as if it will be solved with clever Holmes-like deductions or subtle clues like those in an Agatha Christie novel.

The New York Times

Republicans said they would have to pass another bill at some point to reduce the alternative minimum tax, which was originally passed to ensure that wealthy taxpayers did not escape taxation through clever use of deductions and credits.

The New York Times

Many American banks already pay minuscule federal income taxes, because of various deductions and clever tax planning; the payout-related breaks will reduce their tax bills further in coming years.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clever deduction" when you want to emphasize that a conclusion was reached through intelligence and insight, not just luck or guesswork. This phrase works well in contexts where problem-solving or analytical skills are valued.

Common error

Avoid using "clever deduction" when a simpler explanation suffices. Overstating the sophistication of a conclusion can undermine its credibility if the reasoning is straightforward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clever deduction" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a particular type of reasoning or conclusion. Ludwig AI validates this through its examples, showing it modifies actions and results achieved through intelligent thought. The adjective "clever" enhances the noun "deduction", indicating an intelligent or skillful derivation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clever deduction" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a conclusion reached through intelligent reasoning. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in English. It is a neutral expression, applicable in various contexts, but most frequently encountered in news, science and academia. While "clever deduction" may not be as common as other phrases, it effectively emphasizes the intelligence and insight behind a particular conclusion. Alternative phrases such as "astute inference" and "ingenious reasoning" offer similar meanings, with slight differences in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

astute inference

Replaces "clever" with "astute", emphasizing sharpness and intelligence in the inference.

ingenious reasoning

Substitutes both words, highlighting the inventiveness and logic behind the reasoning process.

shrewd conclusion

Emphasizes practicality and wisdom in reaching the conclusion.

brilliant inference

Uses "brilliant" to amplify the level of intelligence displayed in the inference.

smart reasoning

A more straightforward and common way of expressing the same idea, using "smart" instead of "clever".

insightful conclusion

Focuses on the depth of understanding and insight present in the conclusion.

intelligent guess

Replaces deduction with guess, which implies a possibility of error.

perceptive insight

Highlights the ability to notice and understand things that others may not.

astute observation

Shifts the focus to the act of observing and noting details, rather than the deduction itself.

quick thinking

Focuses on the speed and agility of thought involved.

FAQs

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

You can use "clever deduction" to describe how someone reached a conclusion through intelligent reasoning. For example, "The detective's "clever deduction" about the suspect's motive led to the arrest."

What are some alternatives to "clever deduction"?

Some alternatives include "astute inference", "ingenious reasoning", or "shrewd conclusion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "clever deduction" a formal or informal phrase?

"Clever deduction" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's understandable and appropriate in various settings, from academic papers to casual conversations.

What's the difference between "clever deduction" and "lucky guess"?

"Clever deduction" implies a conclusion reached through intelligence and analysis, while "lucky guess" suggests a conclusion reached by chance without any reasoned process. They are opposites in terms of how the conclusion was obtained.