cunning
word
/ˈkənɪŋ/
KUH-ning
/kˈʌnɪŋ/
KUH-ning
Definition
Describes someone who is very clever at getting what they want, especially by deceiving or tricking others. Can also mean being smart or resourceful in finding solutions.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly negative when describing people (implies trickery), but can be positive when referring to clever problem-solving. Common with 'plan', 'fox', 'look', and 'move'. Don’t confuse with simply 'smart'; 'cunning' usually suggests dishonesty.
Spanish: astuto - ingeniosoPortuguese (BR): astuto - espertoPortuguese (PT): astuto - manhosoChinese (Simplified): 狡猾 - 机灵Chinese (Traditional): 狡猾 - 機靈Hindi: चतुर - चालाकArabic: ماكر - داهيةBengali: চতুর - কুটিলRussian: хитрый - коварныйJapanese: ずる賢い - 巧妙なVietnamese: xảo quyệt - láu cáKorean: 교활한 - 영리한Turkish: kurnaz - sinsiUrdu: عیّار - مکارIndonesian: licik - cerdik
Example Sentences
The cunning fox escaped from the hunter.
basic
She made a cunning plan to win the game.
basic
His cunning tricks fooled everyone.
basic
Don’t trust him—he’s way too cunning for his own good.
natural
It was a cunning move to wait until everyone was tired before asking for help.
natural
Her cunning made her a tough opponent in debates.
natural