Too clever, etc. by half

usgb
adjective

Someone or something trying to be very smart or clever but in a way that is annoying or not really effective.

John is too clever by half, always coming up with elaborate excuses for his late assignments.
Visual representation of "too clever, etc. by half" - Someone or something trying to be very smart or clever but in a way that is annoying or not really effective.

Often appears as...

  • too clever by half
  • too smart by half

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "too clever, etc. by half"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Nuance

Implies disapproval of someone's actions as being overly clever or shrewd in a cunning way.

Illustration for Negative Nuance
His plan was too clever by half and ended up backfiring.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Annoying Behavior

Used to describe someone causing irritation because they overcomplicate things unnecessarily.

Illustration for Annoying Behavior
She's too clever by half with her constant, needlessly complex suggestions.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Irony Alert

Often used ironically to point out someone's failed attempt to be clever.

Illustration for Irony Alert
He thought he missed the questions on purpose, but that was too clever by half.
Visual representation of the word "Too clever, etc. by half"

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