informal 2K

Be smarter than that

🇬🇧 UK //biː ˈsmɑːtə ðən ðæt// 🇺🇸 US //bi ˈsmɑr.tɚ ðən ðæt//

Meaning of Be smarter than that

A phrase used to advise someone to avoid making a foolish or unwise decision.

In simple words: Don't make a foolish choice.

Be smarter than that in a sentence

• You really should be smarter than that and not fall for their tricks.
• If you know the risks, just be smarter than that and don’t take the chance.
• Come on, I know you're smarter than that; don’t make such a basic mistake.
• When choosing a partner, you should be smarter than that; look for someone trustworthy.
• I didn't expect you'd be smarter than that; just think things through next time.

How to use Be smarter than that

Use this phrase to warn someone against making a silly mistake. It's informal and typically used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of a wise owl reminding someone to avoid a bad decision.

Related words

Collocations with Be smarter than that

• be smarter than that
• make a foolish choice
• think things through
• avoid a bad decision

Synonyms for Be smarter than that

• Use common sense
• Think twice
• Be wise
• Consider better options

Common mistakes with Be smarter than that

• Misusing it in formal situations where a more professional phrase is needed.
• Confusing it with 'be smart about it', which means to be clever in a specific situation.

Frequently asked questions about Be smarter than that

What does Be smarter than that mean?

Don't make a foolish choice.

What is the definition of Be smarter than that?

A phrase used to advise someone to avoid making a foolish or unwise decision.

How do you use Be smarter than that in a sentence?

You really should be smarter than that and not fall for their tricks.

Can you give another example of Be smarter than that?

If you know the risks, just be smarter than that and don’t take the chance.

What are synonyms for Be smarter than that?

Common alternatives include Use common sense, Think twice, Be wise, Consider better options.

What words go with Be smarter than that?

It commonly pairs with be smarter than that, make a foolish choice, think things through, avoid a bad decision.

What are common mistakes when using Be smarter than that?

Misusing it in formal situations where a more professional phrase is needed. Confusing it with 'be smart about it', which means to be clever in a specific situation.

How do you pronounce Be smarter than that?

US: //bi ˈsmɑr.tɚ ðən ðæt//, UK: //biː ˈsmɑːtə ðən ðæt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Be smarter than that formal or informal?

"Be smarter than that" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Be smarter than that?

Use this phrase to warn someone against making a silly mistake. It's informal and typically used in casual conversations.