clever
6 synonyms and 6 antonyms for clever, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Mentally quick, smart, and good at coming up with ideas or solving problems.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use clever
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From an East Anglian dialect word cliver, meaning "expert at seizing," likely linked to a root meaning "to grip" or "cling" — connected distantly to "cleave."
Full origin of clever →Frequently asked questions
What does “clever” mean?
The word “clever” means mentally quick, smart, and good at coming up with ideas or solving problems. In plain terms, smart, quick-witted, or skillful — able to think of good ideas or handle things skillfully.
How do you pronounce “clever”?
“Clever” is pronounced KLEHV-uh (/ˈklɛv.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “clever” in a sentence?
Here is “clever” used in a sentence: “It was a clever solution to a tricky problem.”
What is the opposite of “clever”?
The opposite of “clever” — its antonyms — are dull, stupid, ineffectual, naive and antonym(s) of.
What part of speech is “clever”?
“Clever” is an adjective.
Is “clever” a common word?
“Clever” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “clever” have?
“Clever” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: mentally quick, smart, and good at coming up with ideas or solving problems.
What is the difference between 'clever' and 'intelligent'?
Both describe mental ability, but 'clever' stresses quickness and resourcefulness in finding solutions, while 'intelligent' suggests deeper understanding and reasoning power. 'Clever' can also carry a hint of cunning, whereas 'intelligent' is more neutral.
Can 'clever' have a negative meaning?
Yes. When someone is called 'too clever' or 'clever by half,' it suggests they are cunning, sly, or showing off rather than genuinely wise. Tone and context decide whether 'clever' is a compliment or a criticism.
What is the difference between 'clever' and 'smart'?
The words overlap, but 'smart' is more common in American English and can also mean neatly or stylishly dressed. 'Clever' leans towards ingenuity and wit and is especially common in British English.
How is 'clever' used to describe physical skill?
'Clever' can mean nimble or dexterous with the hands or body, as in 'clever fingers' or 'a clever craftsman.' This sense emphasises manual skill rather than intellect.