smart
Refers to devices or technologies that are intelligent, connected, and often act independently.
EXAMPLE
Ein smartes Zuhause kann Heizung und Licht automatisch steuern.
A smart home can automatically control heating and lights.
smart
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Meanings
smart
Describes a person or an approach as intelligent, skillful, and clever.
EXAMPLE
Das war eine smarte Lösung für ein wirklich kompliziertes Problem.
That was a smart solution to a really complicated problem.
smart
Describes a person as stylish, elegant, and well-groomed in appearance. This meaning is somewhat outdated.
EXAMPLE
Er erschien in einem smarten Anzug auf der Party.
He appeared at the party in a smart suit.
Usage tips
Anglicism
'Smart' is a word borrowed from English (an Anglicism). Its meanings in German are therefore strongly influenced by the English original, but they are not always identical.
EXAMPLE
Diese neue App ist wirklich eine smarte Erfindung.
This new app is really a smart invention.
Context: technology
The most common use of 'smart' today is in connection with technology. It describes devices that are connected and intelligent. It is often part of compound words.
EXAMPLE
Mit meiner Smartwatch kann ich Nachrichten empfangen.
I can receive messages with my smartwatch.
Use for people
When a person or an idea is described as 'smart', it means intelligent, skillful, or clever. It often has a positive connotation of deftness and efficiency.
EXAMPLE
Er ist ein smarter Verkäufer, er kann jedem alles verkaufen.
He is a smart salesman; he can sell anything to anyone.
Register and style
The meaning 'elegant' or 'smartly dressed' is outdated in present-day German. You can find it in older texts or films, but it is better not to actively use it in modern everyday language.
EXAMPLE
In dem alten Film trug der Held einen smarten Hut.
In the old film, the hero wore a smart hat.
Compare with
smart vs schick
chic / stylish
Schick and smart can both describe a well-groomed, fashionable person. Schick primarily emphasizes an elegant and tasteful appearance, while smart in this sense can also suggest a worldly and self-assured air; this usage also sounds somewhat outdated today. For neutral everyday descriptions, schick is usually the better choice.
smart
In seinem maßgeschneiderten Anzug wirkt der erfahrene Gastgeber smart und souverän.
In his tailored suit, the experienced host looks smart and self-assured.
schick
In ihrem neuen Anzug sieht sie schick und gepflegt aus.
She looks chic and well-groomed in her new suit.
In real life
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