least clever

USAGE SUMMARY

"least clever" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a person or thing which is at the bottom of a list in terms of intelligence. For example, "Out of all the contestants, Johnny was the least clever."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

RACHEL HANDLER is struggling to say something funny or perhaps amusing or at least clever about horses.

The New York Times

It's clever, or at least clever enough to keep you going and interested from start to finish.

The New York Times

Even slot machines, the least clever form of gambling, increasingly rely on new software.Many still dislike the idea of governments encouraging citizens to gamble.

The Economist

Certain national sports federations have tended to breed doping offenders, indicating that they are either the most determined dopers or the least clever in their methods.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Henshall, incidentally, may not possess quite the physical charisma for the role, but he catches the eager dimness that makes Jerry in some ways the least clever participant in this particular ménage.

The New York Times - Arts

To McElhaney -- who, oddly enough, is not selfish at all but open and generous, or, at least, clever at seeming open and generous while in fact pursuing a strategy of intense self-interest -- this points to a weakness in private companies.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

There are at least two clever strategies for wine aficionados.

The New York Times - Travel

But, while satire need not necessarily be funny, it should, at least, be clever.

The New Yorker

At least his clever, manipulative wife, Marlene, and brutal brother, Chato, are loyal.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But there is at least one clever gnome at work in the Czech Republic, where Skoda is based.

The New York Times

That would at least be clever, though plenty feel United would be better advised to stop tilting at Spanish windmills and sort out the misfiring in Manchester.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "least clever", ensure the context clearly establishes a comparison. It's most effective when contrasting multiple options or individuals.

Common error

Avoid using "least clever" in situations where there isn't a clear point of comparison. Saying something is "least clever" implies it's being evaluated against other things.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least clever" functions as a superlative adjective modifying a noun. It indicates the lowest degree of cleverness within a defined set, such as 'the least clever plan' or 'the least clever student'. Ludwig's examples illustrate its role in comparative assessments.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "least clever" is a grammatically correct and understandable way to express the lowest degree of cleverness among a group. As verified by Ludwig, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. While acceptable, it's essential to consider the tone, as it can be perceived as critical. Ludwig's examples highlight its use in making comparative judgments. When using "least clever", ensure there is a clear basis for comparison and be mindful of the audience to avoid unintended offense. Consider alternatives like "least intelligent" or "not the most astute" for more formal or sensitive situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not very bright

A simple and direct way to indicate a lack of intelligence.

lacking in intelligence

A more formal and direct way of stating a deficiency in intelligence.

not the most astute

Focuses on a lack of shrewdness or perceptiveness.

slow on the uptake

Indicates difficulty in understanding or learning quickly.

intellectually limited

This phrase suggests inherent limitations in intellectual capacity.

rather dense

An informal way of describing someone who is slow to understand.

deficient in wit

Highlights a lack of humor and quick intelligence.

not the sharpest tool in the shed

This is an idiomatic and informal way of saying someone lacks intelligence.

dim-witted

A more derogatory term for someone lacking intelligence.

unsophisticated

This focuses on a lack of worldly knowledge and understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "least clever" to compare different entities or actions. For example, "Among all the escape plans, this one was the "least clever"." Or: "He was the "least clever" of all the spies, always getting caught".

What is a more formal way to say "least clever"?

More formal alternatives include "least intelligent", "least astute", or "lacking in ingenuity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What are some less formal ways to say "least clever"?

Informal alternatives include "not the sharpest tool in the shed", "not very bright", or "slow on the uptake". Use these carefully, as they can be perceived as offensive.

Is it okay to use "least clever" to describe a person?

Yes, it is acceptable to use "least clever" to describe a person, but be mindful of the tone. It can be perceived as critical or dismissive, so consider the context and your audience. Consider less direct alternatives like "not the most astute" depending on the context.