schlau

Schlau is a German adjective meaning clever, smart, or shrewd. It is used to describe people, ideas, or plans that show quick thinking, practical problem-solving, or a certain craftiness. The sense of schlau can range from positive and admirable to mildly sly, depending on context.

In everyday speech, schlau often conveys practical intelligence or street-smart adaptability rather than abstract theoretical knowledge. It can describe a person who finds effective shortcuts, negotiates well, or outsmarts a problem. Because of its nuance, schlau is commonly considered somewhat less formal than klug, which more strongly implies general wisdom.

Usage notes and related terms: Schlau is frequently paired with nouns such as Vorgehen or Lösung to praise a resourceful approach. Related synonyms include klug, intelligent, listig (cunning), and raffiniert (sophisticated). The term can carry a light, teasing tone when applied to friends or family. A related noun is die Schlauheit, meaning cleverness or craftiness, and the noun Schlawiner refers to a sly or roguish person.

In translation, schlau is commonly rendered as clever or shrewd, with connotations of practicality and agility rather than purely academic intelligence. The word reflects a valued aspect of problem-solving in German-speaking contexts, while its exact tone depends on usage and audience.