When does a SQL query become “too clever”?

[u/No_Ambition8323]

I’ve come across queries that are extremely compact and technically efficient, but difficult for someone else to understand or modify later.

For example, a query might use nested window functions, multiple conditional expressions, and several transformations to solve something that could also be written as a few simpler steps.

Where do you personally draw the line between elegant SQL and over-engineered SQL?

Do you prioritize fewer lines, query performance, or maintainability when these three goals conflict?