Another Word for Smart: 15 Synonyms with Examples
“Smart” can mean intelligent or neatly dressed; in British English the second sense is very common. Choose the synonym that matches.
As an adjective: intelligent
- clever
- intelligent
- bright
- sharp
- quick
- astute
- shrewd
- brainy
As an adjective: neat and well dressed
- well dressed
- stylish
- elegant
- neat
- smartly dressed
- chic
- dapper
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- clever
- Quick to learn and understand; very common in British English.
- bright
- Intelligent, especially of children and students.
- astute
- Good at judging situations, often for one's own advantage.
- shrewd
- Practical and sharp in judgement, sometimes slightly calculating.
- stylish
- Fashionable and attractive in appearance.
Example sentences
- clever: That's a clever way to store the cables.
- bright: She was a bright student who loved maths.
- astute: It was an astute move to buy before prices rose.
- shrewd: He is a shrewd negotiator.
- stylish: The hotel lobby is modern and stylish.
Opposite of smart
- stupid
- foolish
- scruffy
- untidy
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “smart”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: voguish, fresh, impertinent, impudent, saucy, sassy, wise
verb: ache, hurt
noun: smarting
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “smart”?
The most useful alternatives are “clever”, “intelligent”, “bright”, “sharp”, “quick”. For the main sense (intelligent), “clever” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “clever” and “bright”?
clever: Quick to learn and understand; very common in British English. bright: Intelligent, especially of children and students.
What is the opposite of “smart”?
Common antonyms are “stupid”, “foolish”, “scruffy”, “untidy”.