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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
special smart
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "special smart" is not standard in written English and may be confusing to readers.
It could be used informally to describe someone who is exceptionally intelligent or clever, but it lacks clarity and is not widely recognized. Example: "She has a special smart way of solving complex problems that impresses everyone."
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
10 human-written examples
The SMART Board series includes interactive white boards on which two users can collaborate using a finger or a special SMART stylus.
News & Media
He made us feel special — smart, funny, and welcome.
News & Media
It also developed a special "smart" charger with software that prevents overcharging.
News & Media
That includes it's life sciences operations, for instance, which is working on a special smart contact lens.
News & Media
Supposedly, one day soon, you'll be able to pass your phone over a special smart tag to pay for something.
News & Media
Employees will be given special "smart" cards, which work like ATM cards.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
49 human-written examples
By plugging the watch into a PC, funds or travel tickets can be downloaded to the chip without the need for a special smart-card reader.
News & Media
On special teams, Smart may need to unleash more energy.
News & Media
Like almost all Jo Malone colognes, it's resolutely day wear rather than something in which to paint the town red, but its spiciness still makes it feel rather special and smart.
News & Media
He will want to find ways to make the museum's permanent collection galleries look like special exhibitions: smart, fabulous, constantly changing shows, spiced with maybe a few sexy loans.
News & Media
They can also provide recognition and rank to make users feel special or smart by leveraging mechanics, such as levels, tracks and leaderboards.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "special smart", consider the context and audience. It's often more appropriate in informal settings or when aiming for a less conventional tone. In formal or academic writing, opt for more precise and widely recognized alternatives such as "particularly intelligent" or "exceptionally astute".
Common error
Avoid using "special smart" in formal writing, such as academic papers or business reports. This phrase is informal and can detract from the credibility and professionalism of your writing. Choose more precise and formal language to convey your intended meaning.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "special smart" functions primarily as a compound adjective modifying a noun (often implied). It aims to describe someone or something possessing a noteworthy level of intelligence and/or cleverness. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase may not be considered standard in written English, and its meaning is highly dependent on context.
Frequent in
News & Media
60%
Science
20%
Wiki
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "special smart" is an informal descriptor used to denote someone or something possessing a noteworthy intelligence. While not grammatically incorrect, Ludwig AI identifies it as non-standard English. Its communicative purpose centers around emphasizing a unique or distinctive cleverness. Ludwig examples reveal the phrase's presence in diverse source categories, predominantly News & Media. When it comes to writing guidance, it's advisable to reserve its usage for informal scenarios, while authoritative and appropriate choices like "particularly intelligent", "uniquely clever", and "exceptionally astute" may be preferred for official contexts.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
particularly intelligent
Replaces "special" with "particularly", emphasizing a high degree of intelligence.
uniquely clever
Emphasizes the unique nature of someone's cleverness, rather than general intelligence.
exceptionally astute
Uses "astute" to convey a sharp and perceptive intelligence.
remarkably bright
Emphasizes the notable quality of someone's intelligence.
distinctively ingenious
Highlights the inventive and creative aspects of intelligence.
especially gifted
Focuses on innate talent and ability, implying a natural intelligence.
singularly insightful
Highlights the depth and perceptiveness of someone's understanding.
uncommonly perceptive
Focuses on the rare ability to understand things quickly and accurately.
unusually resourceful
Emphasizes the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.
outstandingly brilliant
Highlights an extraordinary level of intelligence and talent.
FAQs
What does "special smart" mean?
The phrase "special smart" typically describes someone who is particularly intelligent or clever, often with a unique or distinctive approach to problem-solving. It's an informal way of emphasizing someone's intelligence and unique qualities.
What are some alternatives to "special smart"?
You can use alternatives like "particularly intelligent", "uniquely clever", or "exceptionally astute" depending on the context.
Is it correct to say "special smart"?
While not grammatically incorrect, "special smart" is informal and less precise than alternatives. Ludwig AI suggests that this phrase may not be considered standard in written English.
In what contexts can I use "special smart"?
The phrase "special smart" is more appropriate in informal settings or when aiming for a less conventional tone. Avoid using it in formal or academic writing, where more precise and widely recognized alternatives are preferred.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested