What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clever
Example
She is a clever student who always finds innovative ways to solve math problems. [clever: adjective]
Example
The magician performed a clever trick that left the audience amazed. [clever: adjective]
intelligent
Example
He is an intelligent scientist who has made significant contributions to the field of physics. [intelligent: adjective]
Example
The intelligent student scored the highest marks in the class. [intelligent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intelligent is more commonly used than clever in everyday language. Intelligent is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts to describe a person's intellectual capabilities. Clever, although less common, is often used to highlight someone's quick thinking or inventive solutions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clever and intelligent?
While clever is typically associated with a more casual and informal tone, intelligent is considered a more formal term. Intelligent can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while clever is more commonly used in informal conversations or when describing specific actions or ideas.
