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What is the Opposite Word of Clever?

The word 'Clever' is an adjective used to describe someone who is quick to understand, learn, and devise ideas. A clever person is mentally sharp and resourceful.

The most direct and commonly used opposite word (antonym) for Clever is Stupid or Foolish.

Question (Click to Flip)

What is the opposite word of clever?

Answer

The most common opposite words for clever are 'stupid' and 'foolish'.

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Key Facts

Base Word: Clever (Adjective).

Primary Opposite: Stupid / Foolish.

Other Opposites: Dull, Naive, Inept.

Meaning of Clever: Quick to understand, learn, and apply ideas.

Nuance: 'Cunning' is a type of cleverness used for deceit.

Top Antonyms for 'Clever'

Depending on the exact nuance of the sentence, you can use several different words that mean the opposite of clever:

  1. Stupid: Lacking intelligence or common sense. (The most direct, though harsh, opposite).
  2. Foolish: Lacking good sense or judgment.
  3. Dull: Slow to understand; not mentally sharp.
  4. Naive: Showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment (The opposite of 'street-clever').
  5. Clumsy / Inept: If 'clever' is used to describe skillful hands (a clever trick), the opposite is being clumsy.

Usage in Sentences

Observe how these contrasting words change the meaning of a sentence:

  • Clever: The clever fox easily found a way to open the chicken coop.
  • Foolish: It was foolish of him to leave his keys in the unlocked car.
  • Clever: She gave a very clever answer that impressed the interviewer.
  • Dull: He is a bit dull and takes a long time to understand simple jokes.

Synonyms of Clever (For context)

To build your vocabulary further, words that mean the same as clever include: Smart, intelligent, brilliant, sharp, and cunning.

Questions and Answers

What is the opposite word of clever?+

The most common opposite words for clever are 'stupid' and 'foolish'.

Can 'dull' be used as an antonym for clever?+

Yes. When describing a person's mind, a 'sharp' or 'clever' mind is the exact opposite of a 'dull' mind.

What is the opposite of clever in a physical sense?+

If clever is used to describe physical skill (like 'clever hands'), the opposite would be 'clumsy' or 'awkward'.

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