Neat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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neat

[niːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

tidy

Neat means clean, tidy, and well-organized. Something that is neat is arranged neatly or is simple and pleasing. It can also refer to someone's appearance, behavior, or handwriting.

Synonyms

clean, orderly, organized, tidy, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
neat	Use this word when something looks good and is well-arranged or tidy. Her handwriting is very neat He keeps his room neat and tidy
tidy	Good for something that is arranged neatly and in good order. She always keeps her desk tidy His closet is very tidy
orderly	Perfect for describing situations or places that are systematically arranged and well-organized. The files were in an orderly fashion They maintained an orderly queue
organized	Ideal for talking about something planned well or things arranged systematically. She is very organized with her work His desk is always organized
clean	Best used when something is free from dirt or stains. Make sure your hands are clean before eating The floors were spotless and clean
trim	Often used to describe something that is neat and in good condition, usually small or having clean edges. He has a trim beard The bushes are well-trimmed and look trim

Examples of usage

That's a really neat desk you have there.
She always keeps her room neat and tidy.
He has a neat handwriting that is easy to read.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in a skillful and efficient manner

Neat can also be used as an adverb to describe doing something skillfully, efficiently, or quickly.

Synonyms

effectively, efficiently, quickly, skillfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
neat	When describing something that is clean, tidy, or well-organized. Her desk is always neat and organized. He writes in a neat handwriting.
skillfully	When describing someone performing a task with expertise and high-level ability. He skillfully navigated the ship through the storm. The artist painted the portrait very skillfully.
efficiently	When focusing on the optimal use of time and resources to achieve a task. The new software helps employees work more efficiently. She efficiently solved the problem within minutes.
quickly	When emphasizing the speed at which something is done. She quickly finished her homework. He ran quickly to catch the bus.
effectively	When discussing the successful accomplishment of a task or goal, particularly highlighting the outcome. She managed the project effectively, resulting in a 20% increase in sales. By organizing his time effectively, he was able to complete all his assignments.

Examples of usage

She solved the puzzle neat and effortlessly.
He finished the project neat and on time.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

In Japanese culture, a neat environment is often associated with respect and harmony, reflecting the belief that cleanliness contributes to mental clarity.
The trend of minimalism emphasizes neatness, promoting simplicity and the elimination of excess in living spaces.
Many professional environments value neatness, viewing it as a sign of efficiency and professionalism.

Psychology

Studies show that a clean and neat workspace can enhance productivity and concentration.
Neatness is often linked to personality traits such as conscientiousness, where individuals value order and structure.
Messy environments can lead to distraction, while neat spaces can reduce stress and improve mood.

Science

Lab experiments indicate that organizing materials can help improve learning and recall, supporting the need for neatness in study spaces.
Neat arrangements in scientific illustrations can aid in better understanding complex concepts.
Neatness in ecological systems, such as balance and organization, is crucial for sustainability and biodiversity health.

Literature

Writers often use neatness in storytelling to symbolize control or order in characters’ lives.
In many classic novels, a character's neat appearance reflects their personality, often indicating responsibility or social status.
Poems may employ neatness in structure, using clean stanzas and rhyme schemes to create harmony in language.

Origin of 'neat'

Main points about word origin

The word 'neat' comes from the Old English 'net', meaning 'clean' or 'tidy'.
In the 16th century, the term also referred to livestock, like cattle, which were seen as orderly and valuable.
Originally related to the concept of being clever or skilled, it evolved to describe not just physical order, but also mental clarity.

The word 'neat' originated from Middle English 'nete', meaning 'clean, pure, clear'. It has evolved over time to its current meaning of tidy, clean, and well-organized.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,634 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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