Translation guide
The English adverb "smartly" can describe doing something in an intelligent, clever, or quick-witted way, or in a neat, stylish, or sharp manner. Japanese expresses these ideas with different adverbs and phrases depending on the nuance.
Describes acting with intelligence, quick thinking, or cleverness.
Adverbial form of 賢い (intelligent, wise). Used for acting wisely or intelligently.
彼は賢く立ち回った。
He acted smartly.
Adverbial form of 利口 (clever, smart). Often used for children or pets behaving cleverly.
犬が利口に芸をした。
The dog performed tricks smartly.
Colloquial adverbial form of 頭が良い (smart, intelligent). Implies using one's head well.
頭良くやれば簡単だよ。
If you do it smartly, it's easy.
Means using quick wit or resourcefulness. Emphasizes thinking on one's feet.
彼女は機転を利かせて問題を解決した。
She smartly solved the problem by using her wits.
Means shrewdly or without missing a trick. Often has a slightly calculating nuance.
彼は抜け目なく商談をまとめた。
He smartly closed the deal.
Describes dressing or appearing in a fashionable, tidy, or sharp way.
Loanword from English 'smart', used for stylish, slim, or neat appearance. Very common.
彼はいつもスマートに着こなしている。
He always dresses smartly.
Means fashionably or stylishly. Broader than just neatness; implies a sense of fashion.
彼女はおしゃれに髪をまとめた。
She smartly styled her hair.
Means neatly, properly, or tidily. Focuses on being well-groomed and orderly.
Means chicly or with refined taste. Often used in traditional or sophisticated contexts.
彼は粋に着物を着こなす。
He wears a kimono smartly.
Describes doing something promptly and effectively, often with a sense of briskness.
Means efficiently and skillfully, handling things in a businesslike manner.
彼は手際よく仕事を片付けた。
He smartly finished the work.
Onomatopoeic adverb for doing something quickly and smoothly.
彼女はさっと部屋を掃除した。
She smartly cleaned the room.
Means briskly and efficiently, without dawdling.
彼はてきぱきと指示を出した。
He smartly gave instructions.
Do not directly translate 'smartly' as 賢く in all contexts. For fashion or efficiency, use the appropriate adverbs like スマートに or 手際よく.
彼はきちんとしたスーツを着ていた。
He wore a smartly pressed suit.