smart as a whip

ADJECTIVE

quick

Synonyms

STRONGEST

able active deft effective keen ready sharp vigorous wise

STRONG

acute adept knowing prompt savvy slick whiz

WEAK

adroit all there apt astute bright canny capable clever competent dexterous discerning effectual intelligent nimble-witted on the ball perceptive perspicacious quick on the draw quick on the trigger quick on the uptake quick-witted receptive sharp as a tack shrewd skillful wired

Antonyms

STRONGEST

blunt dull idle ignorant impotent inactive ineffective inept lazy slow stupid unintelligent useless weak

STRONG

clumsy

WEAK

sluggish uneducated

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“She’s smart as a whip and she’s listening and trying to work on things that are pragmatic and having real impact on people in our community,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

“He is smart as a whip, he’s a great dog, but they surrendered him because they don’t have time for him,” Gambone said.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 14, 2022

He’s smart as a whip and is already reading independently, but socially he’s just not there yet.

From Slate • Sep. 10, 2020

But she’s no eye candy: She’s smart as a whip, and learns enough about the game - though she never plays - to take it over when her boss stops paying her.

From Washington Times • Dec. 27, 2017

Off the field he was quiet, serene, and smart as a whip, his passivity neatly hiding an astounding determination to succeed.

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger

smart as a whip

Example Sentences

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