clever observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clever observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a remark or insight that demonstrates intelligence or perceptiveness. Example: "Her clever observation about the character's motivations added depth to the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

About a Boy is an amusing film, full of bright lines and clever observation, though some scenes, including all those set in Marcus's school, strike false notes.

The Guardian - Film

But, for now, in the battle between historical accuracy and every single clever observation ever uttered being credited to either Mark Twain or Winston Churchill, the misattributors are winning.

The New Yorker

SNL sketches rarely stick their landings — they either end too abruptly or go on forever — but the punchline of "Black Jeopardy" raised it from clever observation to sharp commentary.

The Washington Post

And for that, veteran industry watcher Jason Maynard of Wells Fargo has a clever observation.

Forbes

Make a clever observation.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Kim Wilde's record collection!" What price Collins's sardonic, clever observations in that climate?

The Guardian - Music

That said, we want more of your clever observations and withering witticisms.

The Washington Post

She writes clear, funny, unadorned prose, and packs her pages with clever observations without appearing to be trying.

The New York Times - Books

That's the very quality -- along with Grodstein's agile prose and clever observations -- that makes her stand out.

The New York Times - Books

He does not trade in clever observations or neat wordplay, but in a viciously exaggerated idea of blue humour, usually at the expense of celebrities.

The Guardian

(Talks are expected to resume today at 10 A.M .. To read: Thirteen clever observations by the children's author Lemony Snicket about Occupy Wall Street.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clever observation" to describe an insight that is both intelligent and perceptive, adding depth or clarity to a discussion or analysis.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "clever observation" in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable, more sophisticated alternatives like "astute analysis" or "perceptive insight" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clever observation" functions as a noun phrase, where "clever" modifies the noun "observation". Ludwig AI indicates it is suitable for describing remarks or insights that demonstrate intelligence and perceptiveness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clever observation" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that describes an intelligent and perceptive insight. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it is important to consider the context. While it is a common phrase, more formal settings might benefit from options like "astute analysis" or "perceptive insight". The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and is uncommon overall. When using this phrase, aim to describe a novel or insightful perspective, avoiding overuse in highly formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

astute remark

Replaces 'observation' with 'remark', focusing on the spoken aspect of the insight. Meaning is very similar.

insightful comment

Substitutes 'clever' with 'insightful' and 'observation' with 'comment', emphasizing the depth and relevance of the insight.

perceptive insight

Uses 'perceptive' instead of 'clever', highlighting the keenness of the understanding.

shrewd analysis

Replaces 'observation' with 'analysis', indicating a more structured and reasoned insight. 'Shrewd' emphasizes intelligence.

brilliant deduction

Focuses on the inferential aspect of the observation, suggesting a conclusion reached through reasoning. 'Brilliant' amplifies 'clever'.

ingenious remark

Highlights the inventiveness and originality of the observation, similar to 'clever'.

smart insight

Uses a more general term 'smart' instead of 'clever', while retaining the core meaning of intelligence.

acute perception

Emphasizes the sharpness and keenness of the observation, focusing on the ability to notice and understand.

subtle understanding

Focuses on the refined and delicate nature of the insight, suggesting a deep level of comprehension.

keen awareness

Highlights the sharp and attentive quality of noticing something important. Less focused on intellectual insight than the original phrase.

FAQs

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

You can use "clever observation" to describe someone's insightful comment or analysis. For example, "Her "clever observation" about the character's motivations added depth to the discussion."

What are some alternatives to "clever observation"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "insightful comment", "astute remark", or "perceptive insight".

Is "clever observation" formal or informal?

The phrase "clever observation" is suitable for both neutral and slightly informal contexts. For highly formal writing, consider more sophisticated alternatives.

What makes an observation "clever"?

A "clever observation" demonstrates intelligence, quick-wittedness, and an ability to see something others might miss. It often involves a novel or insightful perspective.