very clever idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very clever idea" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is generally used to describe a thought or plan that is particularly smart or innovative. Here is an example of how it could be used in a sentence: "Tom had a very clever idea to save money on our project by using recycled materials instead of buying new ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

It's a very clever idea, but that cleverness never gets in the way of the story: you'll want to read and play it several times to try different routes.

The Guardian - Tech

It's a very clever idea.

The New York Times - Tech

9. Sneak Sneak is a very clever idea.

The Guardian

I thought this was a very clever idea, and the great fill made this solve even better for me.

The New York Times

At some point someone had the very clever idea of stringing a few tablets together in a bundle.

The New York Times - Books

Groan-making pun, yet this is also a very clever idea - if it can be multi-platform.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

"He brought with him some very clever ideas and applied his knowledge of mathematics and software to the parameters of auto racing.

The New York Times

In a phone conversation with Moffat that was originally supposed to be about their show Sherlock, Gatiss pitched new and "very clever ideas" of what to do with the Ice Warriors, and Moffat agreed.

Wikipedia

Given all the hype and noise swirling around crypto and decentralized network projects, which runs the full gamut from scams and stupidity, to very clever and inspired ideas, the release of yet another whitepaper does not immediately set off an attention klaxon.

TechCrunch

Comedy Central is very clever in both the idea and timing of the development of their new cartoon series JC.

Huffington Post

It's a clever idea and very necessary considering people will keep making Mission: Impossible sequels until a robot makes them stop.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very clever idea" when you want to emphasize the ingenuity and intelligence behind a specific plan or concept. Ensure the context supports the positive connotation.

Common error

While "very clever idea" is acceptable in many contexts, it can sound slightly informal in highly professional or academic settings. Consider using a more sophisticated alternative like "exceptionally astute plan" or "remarkably ingenious concept" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very clever idea" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. The adjective "very clever" intensifies the quality of the "idea", highlighting its ingenuity and intelligence. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very clever idea" is a commonly used phrase to express admiration for an ingenious thought or plan. As Ludwig AI demonstrates, its grammatical function is as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts, especially in News & Media. While generally correct, the writing guidance suggests considering more formal alternatives in professional settings. Ludwig confirms that the phrase effectively conveys approval of intelligence and creativity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remarkably ingenious concept

Emphasizes the inventiveness and originality of the idea.

exceptionally astute plan

Highlights the shrewdness and practicality of the plan.

particularly brilliant notion

Focuses on the high level of intelligence behind the idea.

notably inventive scheme

Stresses the creative and innovative aspect of the scheme.

decidedly ingenious strategy

Underscores the cleverness and strategic value of the strategy.

strikingly resourceful approach

Highlights the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

genuinely inspired thought

Emphasizes the originality and creativity of the thought.

uncommonly insightful proposition

Focuses on the depth and understanding demonstrated by the proposition.

demonstrably shrewd tactic

Highlights the effectiveness and cleverness of the tactic.

unusually canny design

Stresses the cleverness and practicality of the design.

FAQs

How can I use "very clever idea" in a sentence?

You can use "very clever idea" to describe a plan or concept that demonstrates intelligence and ingenuity. For example, "Her "very clever idea" saved the company a lot of money".

What are some alternatives to "very clever idea"?

Alternatives include "brilliant idea", "ingenious plan", or "astute strategy" depending on the context.

Is "very clever idea" formal or informal?

The phrase "very clever idea" is generally considered to be neutral in tone but can lean toward informal. Consider the context and audience when choosing this phrase, and opt for more formal alternatives if needed.

What makes an idea "very clever"?

A "very clever idea" typically involves a creative or resourceful solution to a problem, demonstrating intelligence and ingenuity. It stands out as being particularly smart or effective.