devoid of cleverness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devoid of cleverness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks intelligence, wit, or creativity. Example: "The movie was entertaining, but the plot was ultimately devoid of cleverness, making it predictable."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

They clear only the lowest bar of cleverness, like puns.

The New Yorker

We've got lots of cleverness".

The New York Times

If anyone died of cleverness it was Hugh Everett.

The Guardian - Film

All of "Live By Night" is written with that same degree of cleverness and care.

The New York Times - Books

Further, there are different sorts of cleverness.

Forbes

There's mounds of cleverness baked into each immortalized tweet.

Huffington Post

His stories of cleverness (and arrogance) are very similar to Br'er Rabbit and Anansi.

Wikipedia

Devoid of social value.

The New York Times

Oddly devoid of people.

The New York Times

Devoid of all dismay.

Independent

Devoid of any empathy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "devoid of cleverness", ensure the context clearly indicates what is lacking intelligence or wit. Be specific about the subject to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overusing "devoid of cleverness" when simpler terms like "unimaginative" or "dull" might suffice. Choose the phrasing that best fits the tone and formality of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devoid of cleverness" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate the absence of ingenuity, wit, or intelligence. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "devoid of cleverness" effectively describes something that lacks intelligence, wit, or creativity. While examples of its usage are currently limited, Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It functions as an adjective, modifying a noun to indicate this absence. Alternative phrases include "lacking in ingenuity" or "bereft of wit". This phrase can be used in neutral contexts to critique or highlight a deficiency in creative thought.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Without a trace of cleverness

Emphasizes the complete absence of cleverness.

Devoid of originality

Emphasizes the absence of new or unique ideas.

Lacking in ingenuity

Focuses on the absence of inventiveness or originality.

Bereft of wit

Highlights the absence of humor and sharp intelligence.

Showing no ingenuity

Highlights the absence of inventiveness in actions or ideas.

Completely without wit

Suggests that there is no amount of wit present.

Uninspired

Suggests a lack of creative spark or ingenuity.

Lacking smarts

Informal way to describe the absence of intelligence and cleverness.

Not particularly bright

Indicates a general lack of intelligence or quick-wittedness.

Significantly unintelligent

Suggests that there is a significantly low level of intelligence.

FAQs

How can I use "devoid of cleverness" in a sentence?

You can use "devoid of cleverness" to describe something lacking ingenuity or wit. For example, "The plot was entertaining, but ultimately "devoid of cleverness", making it predictable".

What are some alternatives to saying "devoid of cleverness"?

Alternatives include "lacking in ingenuity", "bereft of wit", or "without a trace of cleverness", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "lacking cleverness" or "devoid of cleverness"?

"Devoid of cleverness" emphasizes a complete absence, while "lacking cleverness" suggests a deficiency. The choice depends on whether you want to convey a total absence or simply a shortage.

What is the difference between "devoid of cleverness" and "unintelligent"?

"Devoid of cleverness" focuses on a lack of wit and ingenuity, while "unintelligent" implies a general lack of mental capacity. They are similar, but "devoid of cleverness" is more specific to creative thought.