clever

B1 · Intermediate

adj. showing a smart or original way of doing something.

adj. demonstrating inventiveness, originality, or effective design in a process or object.

“That is a clever way to store your shoes under the bed.”

“The architect devised a clever solution to the lighting problem by installing a series of angled mirrors in the central atrium.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. good at making things or using your hands.

adj. dexterous or physically skillful, particularly in the context of manual crafts or technical tasks.

“He is very clever with his hands and can fix almost any machine.”

“The artisan was remarkably clever with a chisel, carving intricate patterns into the hardwood with effortless precision.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. good at getting what you want, sometimes by tricking others.

adj. mentally quick and resourceful in a way that may be perceived as deceptive or manipulative.

“The fox in the story was clever and managed to steal the cheese.”

“The politician was known for being a clever negotiator who could steer a conversation toward his own goals without others noticing.”

C2 · Proficiency British English · Dialect · Informal

adj. feeling healthy and full of energy.

adj. physically fit, healthy, or recovered from an illness.

“I am not feeling very clever today, so I think I will stay in bed.”

“After a week of heavy flu, he finally admitted he was feeling a bit more clever and ready to return to work.”