street smart
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having the practical knowledge and resourcefulness needed to deal with the challenges of urban life: This describes a person who is shrewd, aware, and capable in everyday city environments, often through direct experience rather than formal education. It implies an ability to read situations, avoid danger, and navigate complex social interactions.
Usage
- The term "street smart" is used to describe a person's practical intelligence and survival skills in an urban context. It is often contrasted with "book smart," which refers to academic or theoretical knowledge.
- It is commonly used as a compound adjective before a noun (e.g., a street-smart kid) or as a predicate adjective after a linking verb (e.g., He is very street smart).
- The hyphen is frequently used when the term precedes a noun.
Examples
- Adjective:
- Growing up in that neighborhood made her incredibly street smart; she knows how to handle herself.
- You need to be street smart to navigate the subway system and avoid scams in a big city.
- He's a street-smart entrepreneur who understands his local market better than any MBA graduate.
Advanced Usage
- "street smarts" (noun, plural): The practical knowledge and skills themselves.
- She relied on her street smarts to get out of a difficult situation.
- The concept often carries a connotation of having learned through direct, sometimes harsh, experience.
Variants and Related Words
- Streetwise (adjective): A direct synonym for street smart.
- The streetwise guide showed us the real city, not just the tourist spots.
- Savvy (adjective/noun): General practical knowledge and understanding, which can include street smarts.
- She has a lot of political savvy.
Synonyms
- Shrewd: Having sharp powers of judgment; astute.
- Canny: Having or showing shrewdness and good judgment, especially in money or business matters.
- Worldly-wise: Experienced and knowledgeable about the practical aspects of life.
Antonyms
- Naive: Showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment.
- Gullible: Easily persuaded to believe something; credulous.
- Bookish: Devoted to reading and studying rather than practical or physical pursuits.
Related Idioms/Phrases
- To have one's wits about one: To be alert and able to think quickly in a difficult situation. This is a key component of being street smart.
- In this job, you need to have your wits about you at all times.
- To know the ropes: To understand the details and procedures of an activity or role.
- Ask Maria for help; she knows the ropes around here.
Adjective
-
having the shrewd resourcefulness needed to survive in an urban environment
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