Smarter: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in casual conversations when complimenting someone's general ability to think quickly and make good decisions. It can also refer to someone's appearance linking to being neatly dressed.

• I think she's smarter than most people give her credit for.
• You look smarter in that suit.

Formal contexts where the emphasis is on someone's cognitive ability, particularly in academic or professional settings. It suggests a deeper level of understanding or knowledge.

• She is more intelligent than her peers, often excelling in complex subjects.
• They found him to be more intelligent based on his insightful contributions to the discussion.

Best suited for describing someone who is quick-witted and often good at coming up with creative solutions or ideas. Can sometimes imply trickiness or slyness.

• Her plan to solve the problem was much cleverer than mine.
• He's cleverer at puzzles than anyone I know.

Often used to describe someone who is mentally quick and perceptive, generally in business or competitive environments. Can also refer to a quick recovery of mental acuity.

• He's noticeably sharper after his morning coffee.
• In negotiations, you need to be sharper to outmatch the competition.

Use 'smarter' when referring to something or someone that exhibits or possesses more intelligence, cleverness, or efficiency than others. It often applies to individuals, tools, or solutions that are more effective in solving problems.

• The smarter student finished the exam in half the time
• This new app is smarter than any other on the market

Use 'more advanced' to describe something that is at a higher level of development or progress compared to others. This can refer to technology, skills, or methodologies that are superior in complexity or capability.

• The more advanced students are working on complex projects
• This version of the software is more advanced than the previous one

Use 'high-tech' when describing something that incorporates the latest technology, gadgets, or advanced components. This term is commonly used for electronic devices, machinery, and modern infrastructure.

• The new high-tech security system uses biometrics and AI to ensure safety
• They moved into a high-tech office space with all the latest equipment

Use 'innovative' when talking about something new and creative that significantly changes or improves a field or practice. It is used for describing ideas, products, or methods that introduce unique concepts.

• Their innovative business model has revolutionized the industry
• The company is known for its innovative approach to solving problems

Used generally to describe someone who is more intelligent or quick-witted than others. Suitable for both formal and informal situations.

• She is smarter than most of her classmates.
• Tom got a promotion because he is smarter and more efficient.

Used to describe someone who engages in critical thinking and reasoning, often related to scholarly or academic pursuits. Suitable for formal contexts.

• She enjoys intellectual discussions about philosophy and science.
• He is respected as an intellectual in literary circles.

Used informally to describe someone who is exceptionally intelligent or knowledgeable, often in a particular field. Commonly used in a casual or humorous manner.

• He is such a brainiac when it comes to computers.
• We need a brainiac like you on our team to solve this problem.

Used to describe someone with extraordinary intellectual or creative ability. Can be used both formally and informally, though it often carries a sense of awe.

• Einstein was considered a genius in the field of physics.
• You're a genius for coming up with that solution!