How to Pronounce "too clever by half"
expression
ˈtu/ /ˈkɫɛvɝ/ /ˈbaɪ/ /ˈhæf
TOO KLEV-er BY HAF
tˈuː/ /klˈɛvɐ/ /bˈaɪ/ /hˈɑːf
TOO klev-uh by HAHF
Definition
Describes someone who is very clever in a way that is annoying or causes problems, usually because they think too highly of their own intelligence.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈtu/ /ˈkɫɛvɝ/ /ˈbaɪ/ /ˈhæf
British English
tˈuː/ /klˈɛvɐ/ /bˈaɪ/ /hˈɑːf
Simplified Pronunciation
US
TOO KLEV-er BY HAF
UK
TOO klev-uh by HAHF
Listen in Context
He is too clever by half and always tries to trick others.
Don't be too clever by half—your plan could backfire.
She was too clever by half and lost everyone's trust.
You’re being too clever by half with that answer—just say what you mean!