clever question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clever question" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a question that is particularly insightful or thought-provoking. For example, "My daughter asked me a really clever question about the way the government works."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

At the time he considered this a clever question.

The New Yorker

After Friday's short program, Weir was asked a clever question and gave an equally clever reply, almost all of the words being titles of songs by Lady Gaga.

The New York Times

It's a clever question, leaving me to mentally fill in my hell-specific answer: I would be on a deserted country road near a summer resort for rapists and murderers.

The New York Times

Jamie Rubin asked him a clever question, right out of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?": if he had just one phone call to make about some foreign policy issue and he could call either Richard Lugar or John McCain, which would it be?

The New Yorker

You got me, George, with that clever question, and now I guess I have to tell you everything".

Huffington Post

Where were you, goes the clever question, not at Marston Moor but at Kronstadt?

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Next up for Watson, I.B.M.'s clever question-answering computer?

The New York Times

After defeating human "Jeopardy" champions, the clever question-answering computer has moved on to medicine.

The New York Times

Can you come up with clever questions?

The New York Times

He poses clever questions and asks a lot.

The New York Times - Magazine

With real policy issues to worry about, what on earth is he doing answering clever questions about make-believe ones?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clever question" when you want to highlight the intelligence or ingenuity behind a question. It suggests the questioner has a sharp mind.

Common error

While "clever question" is effective, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "insightful query" or "thought-provoking question" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clever question" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "clever" modifies the noun "question". It is used to describe a question that demonstrates intelligence, wit, or ingenuity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clever question" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a question that demonstrates intelligence or ingenuity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be effectively used in written English. It appears frequently in news and media sources, maintaining a neutral register. When using this phrase, consider diversifying your language with alternatives like "insightful query" or "smart question" to maintain reader engagement. Understanding these nuances will enhance your writing and communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Smart question

A more casual synonym, indicating intelligence and quick-thinking.

Insightful query

Emphasizes the depth of understanding and perception behind the question.

Perceptive question

Focuses on the question's ability to reveal insights and understandings.

Intelligent inquiry

Highlights the intellectual aspect of the question, focusing on its smart nature.

Thought-provoking question

Emphasizes the question's ability to stimulate deeper thinking.

Astute interrogation

Focuses on the sharpness and shrewdness of the question.

Shrewd questioning

Highlights the practical intelligence and sharp-wittedness of the question.

Ingenious question

Highlights the inventive and original nature of the question.

Well-crafted question

Highlights the skillful composition and structure of the question.

Artful question

Implies the question is skillfully and cleverly designed.

FAQs

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

You can use "clever question" to describe a question that is insightful or demonstrates intelligence. For instance, "She posed a "clever question" that stumped all the experts."

What's a good alternative to "clever question"?

Alternatives include "insightful query", "smart question", or "perceptive question", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "clever question"?

While grammatically correct, using "clever question" might be inappropriate if the context requires a more formal or technical term. Consider the audience and purpose of your writing.

What's the difference between "clever question" and "shrewd question"?

"Clever question" generally refers to a question that is intelligent or witty, while "shrewd question" implies a question that is astute and insightful, often designed to reveal hidden information or motivations.