street smarts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "street smarts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe practical knowledge and experience in dealing with everyday situations, particularly in urban environments. Example: "While he may not have a college degree, his street smarts have helped him navigate the challenges of city life successfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He had street smarts.

The New York Times - Sports

They've got some street smarts.

The New York Times

Learned street smarts.

The New York Times

Just the street smarts and the savvy".

Independent

Sponsored by Street Smarts N.Y.

The New York Times - Arts

Because it gave me street smarts.

The Guardian

It also gives you street smarts.

The Guardian

Sponsored by Street Smarts New York.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a sign of street smarts.

The New York Times - Food

Others try to inculcate street smarts.

The New York Times

Computer security is equal parts tools and digital "street smarts".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "street smarts" to describe a character's ability to handle unexpected or challenging situations with resourcefulness and quick thinking.

Common error

Avoid implying that possessing "street smarts" is a substitute for formal education. While valuable, it is a different type of intelligence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "street smarts" functions primarily as a noun, referring to the ability to handle difficult or dangerous situations, especially in urban environments. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is correct and widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "street smarts" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes practical intelligence gained from real-world experience. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts. While it's generally considered informal, it's widely understood and accepted. When writing, use "street smarts" to highlight someone's ability to navigate social complexities or challenging situations with resourcefulness. Be sure not to imply that it's a substitute for formal education.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

streetwise

Adjective form describing someone possessing "street smarts".

practical intelligence

Focuses on the cognitive aspect of dealing with real-world problems.

savvy

Highlights shrewdness and practical knowledge, often in business or political contexts.

common sense

Emphasizes sound judgment derived from experience rather than formal study.

worldly wisdom

Highlights experience and knowledge gained from life's various situations.

practical know-how

Emphasizes the ability to do things effectively and skillfully.

resourcefulness

Focuses on the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.

acumen

Implies keen insight and shrewdness, often in a specific field.

adaptability

Highlights the ability to adjust to new conditions and challenges.

life skills

Broader term encompassing skills needed to handle everyday life effectively.

FAQs

How can I use "street smarts" in a sentence?

You can use "street smarts" to describe someone who has practical knowledge and can navigate difficult situations effectively. For example, "Despite not having a formal education, she relied on her street smarts to succeed in business".

What's a good alternative to "street smarts"?

Alternatives include "practical intelligence", "common sense", or "savvy", depending on the context.

Is "street smarts" formal or informal?

"Street smarts" is generally considered an informal term. In more formal contexts, you might prefer "practical intelligence" or "resourcefulness".

What's the difference between "book smarts" and "street smarts"?

"Book smarts" refers to knowledge gained from formal education, while "street smarts" refers to knowledge and skills acquired through real-world experience and observation.