German Conversation · Level 63
76 words
German word
schlau
Pronunciation
IPA/ʃlaʊ̯/
Meaning
- adjectivesmart
Example
Er ist schlauer als sein Bruder.
He is smarter than his brother.
More examples
Er ist schlau wie ein Fuchs.
He is as smart as a fox.
Core concept
A person turns a few available tools into a workable solution, with enough cunning to outwit an obstacle.
Common phrases
schlau wie ein Fuchs
smart as a fox
ein schlauer Trick
a clever trick
nicht gerade schlau
not exactly smart
Similar words
klug: Showing sound judgment grounded in knowledge and experience.
intelligent: Highly capable of logical thought and understanding.
clever: Quick to find effective solutions to problems.
Definition in German
Jemand, der mit wenigen Mitteln praktisch einfallsreich handelt und Lösungen findet.
Word origin
German schlau developed from Middle High German slou or slū, meaning 'clever' or 'crafty'; its modern range includes practical ingenuity and slyness.
Usage tips
- Unlike English 'smart', schlau can suggest sly or crafty behavior, while klug is often a more neutral choice for sound judgment.