Clear to the mind; clear in argument; clear of or from annoyances.

[109]

CLEVER.

Synonyms:

able,capable,happy,keen,sharp,
adroit,dexterous,ingenious,knowing,skilful,
apt,expert,intellectual,quick,smart,
bright,gifted,intelligent,quick-witted,talented.

Clever, as used in England, especially implies an aptitude for study or learning, and for excellent tho not preeminent mental achievement. The early New England usage as implying simple and weak good nature has largely affected the use of the word throughout the United States, where it has never been much in favor. Smart, indicating dashing ability, is now coming to have a suggestion of unscrupulousness, similar to that of the word sharp, which makes its use a doubtful compliment. The discriminating use of such words as able, gifted, talented, etc., is greatly preferable to an excessive use of the word clever. Compare [ACUMEN]; [ASTUTE]; [POWER].

Antonyms:

awkward,clumsy,foolish,ignorant,slow,thick-headed,
bungling,dull,idiotic,senseless,stupid,witless.