street smart
/striːt ˈsmɑːrt/ · street·smart
adjective
- having the knowledge and skills necessary to survive and succeed in a difficult or challenging environment, often acquired through experience rather than formal education The street smart kid from the city was able to navigate the complex public transportation system with ease.
noun
- a person who possesses street smarts, often characterized by their resourcefulness, cunning, and ability to think on their feet The street smart entrepreneur was able to turn her small business into a huge success through her clever marketing strategies and adaptability.
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Did you know? The concept of 'street smart' has been explored in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and education, with some researchers arguing that it is a unique and valuable form of intelligence that is often overlooked in traditional measures of cognitive ability. The phrase has also been popularized in popular culture, with many films and TV shows featuring street smart characters who use their wits and cunning to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.