B1adjective1K

Smart

UK /["/smɑːt/"]/US /["/smɑːrt/"]/

Definition

looking clean and neat; well dressed in fashionable and/or formal clothes

In simple words: Someone who is clever or good at learning.

Examples

  • She is very smart and always comes up with clever ideas.
  • The smart choice would be to save some money for emergencies.
  • He wore a smart suit to the job interview.
  • Her smart phone has all the latest apps installed.
  • You need to make a smart move if you want to win the game.
  • The smart student always studies ahead of the exams.
  • This smart watch can track your heart rate and steps.
  • He made a smart investment that paid off handsomely.

Usage notes

Used to describe a person’s intelligence or a device’s capability. Not appropriate for casual or informal situations when referring to a person, as it can be seen as too formal.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a SMART person who outsmarts others!

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • brisk

Antonyms

  • dumb
  • stupid
  • ignorant

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'sharp' when referring to someone's wit.
  • Using inappropriately in very casual contexts, like describing friends.
  • Mispronouncing the word, especially in the context of slang.