Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Street smarts refer to practical knowledge about everyday life and human interactions that isn't learned in school but from experiences in real-world situations.
Related terms
Social Intelligence: The capacity to effectively navigate and negotiate complex social relationships and environments. It's like being able to read the room at a party or gathering.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ): The ability to identify, understand, manage and use emotions in positive ways. EQ is like having an internal weather station where you can monitor emotional climates within yourself and others.
Practical Intelligence: Refers to the ability that individuals use to find the best fit between themselves and the demands of the environment. It's like being a chameleon, able to adapt and blend into different situations.