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.
He acted smartly.
Adverbial form of 利口 (clever, smart). Often used for children or pets behaving cleverly.
The dog performed tricks smartly.
Colloquial adverbial form of 頭が良い (smart, intelligent). Implies using one's head well.
If you do it smartly, it's easy.
Means using quick wit or resourcefulness. Emphasizes thinking on one's feet.
She smartly solved the problem by using her wits.
Means shrewdly or without missing a trick. Often has a slightly calculating nuance.
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.
He always dresses smartly.
Means fashionably or stylishly. Broader than just neatness; implies a sense of fashion.
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.
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.
He smartly finished the work.
Onomatopoeic adverb for doing something quickly and smoothly.
Means briskly and efficiently, without dawdling.
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.
She smartly cleaned the room.