# ingenious

/ˌɪnˈdʒinjəs/ (US) · /ɪndʒˈiːnɪəs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ingenious
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. cleverly designed

adjective · CEFR B2

describes a thing or an idea that is very clever and original.

For teachers: characterised by cleverness or originality of invention or construction; often applied to solutions, devices, or plans.

- The designer found an ingenious way to fit a bed and a desk into the tiny room.
- The engineers developed an ingenious cooling system that used significantly less electricity than traditional models.

Usage: Usually placed before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.

Teaching tip: Learners often confuse this with 'ingenuous'. Remind them that 'ingenious' is related to 'genius'.

### 2. inventive person

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

describes a person who is very good at inventing things or solving problems in clever ways.

For teachers: possessing or showing great skill at invention or discovery; resourceful and brilliant in mental character.

- He was an ingenious cook who could make a great meal out of almost nothing.
- The ingenious young programmer managed to bypass the security flaw that had baffled the senior staff for weeks.

Teaching tip: While 'clever' is common in speech, 'ingenious' is a more sophisticated choice for academic or professional praise.

## Examples

- She found an ingenious way to fix the broken handle.
- The architect developed an ingenious plan to maximize natural light in the narrow apartment building.
- While the initial problem seemed insurmountable, the team's ingenious use of recycled materials allowed them to complete the bridge well under budget.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.