the most clever

USAGE SUMMARY

"the most clever" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something that is more clever than other people or things that you have compared them to. For example: "I think out of all of my children, Lola is the most clever."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And some of the most clever stepped outside of identity completely.

The New York Times

Cable TV has developed one of the most clever business models in our modern economy.

The New York Times - Magazine

And controlling what people like is something that even the most clever marketer can't do.

The New Yorker

Arguably the most clever clue of the day, "Takes night courses?," does not refer to studying.

The New York Times

One of the first, and by far the most clever, was Giovanna Battaglia of W magazine.

The New York Times

The Volkswagen spot, called "The Dog Strikes Back," was ranked as the most clever.

The New York Times

They're all established hit makers, as well as some of the most clever hook-makers alive.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's not going to be the most clever or the most profound thing.

The New York Times - Arts

When it comes to disappearing acts, this year Subaru rivals the most clever rumrunners.

The New York Times

Even the most clever chemists haven't been able to recreate these characteristics artificially.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I just think this dude here is the most clever one of them all, and he's still so normal".

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "clever". While generally positive, it can sometimes imply cunning or a lack of sincerity. Choose a more specific adjective if needed, such as "ingenious" or "astute".

Common error

Avoid using "the most clever" as a general superlative without specifying what makes something particularly clever. Vague statements dilute the impact. Instead, specify the aspect of cleverness you're highlighting.

Linguistic Context

Adjectival superlative phrase, modifying a noun to indicate the highest degree of cleverness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "the most clever" functions as an adjectival superlative, indicating the highest degree of ingenuity or wit. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media contexts. While generally positive, the term's connotations should be considered, as it can sometimes imply cunning. When using "the most clever", providing specific context and considering alternative adjectives like ""the most ingenious"" or ""the most astute"" can enhance clarity and precision. Always aim to give examples and further explanation in your writtings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the most astute

Focuses on keen discernment and understanding.

the most ingenious

Emphasizes inventive and original cleverness.

the most cunning

Implies a cleverness used for achieving goals, sometimes with a negative connotation.

the most adroit

Highlights skill and dexterity in handling situations or problems.

the most skillful

Focuses on expertise and proficiency.

the most shrewd

Indicates practical intelligence and resourcefulness.

the smartest

A more general and common way to express the highest level of intelligence.

the most resourceful

Emphasizes the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.

the most insightful

Focuses on depth of understanding and perception.

the most inventive

Highlights the capacity for creating new and original things or ideas.

FAQs

How can I use "the most clever" in a sentence?

Use "the most clever" to describe something that exhibits a high degree of ingenuity or wit compared to others. For instance, "That was "the most clever solution" to the problem I've ever seen."

What are some alternatives to "the most clever"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "the most ingenious", "the most astute", or "the most resourceful".

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "the most clever"?

While generally positive, "clever" can sometimes suggest cunning or slyness. Ensure that this connotation aligns with your intended meaning. If not, consider a more neutral term like "the smartest".

What's the difference between "the most clever" and "the most intelligent"?

"The most clever" often implies a quick-wittedness or inventiveness in solving a problem, while "the most intelligent" suggests a broader, more profound understanding. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.