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clever

Definition

  • adjective: intelligent and able to learn things quickly
  • adjective: skillful or adroit in using the hands or body
  • often used in a joking or ironic way to describe a foolish idea, action, etc.
  • synonyms: nimble, smart, expert

Examples

  • Don't you start getting 'clever' [=('US') 'fresh'] with me! [=don't speak to me in a disrespectful way]

  • For someone who hasn't been 'feeling too clever' lately, he just played a great round of golf.

  • A few 'clever' [='smart, bright'] students have started a business recycling old computers.

Movie quotes

  • (..) I've seen him-- Jeff, do you think a murderer would let you see all that? That he wouldn't pull the shades and hide behind them? He's being clever. He's being nonchalant. And that's where you're not being clever. A murderer would never parade his crime in front of an open window. (..)
    1954 Rear Window