wily
word
Definition
Clever at gaining an advantage, especially by using trickery or deceit; skilled at being sly or crafty.
Usage & Nuances
'Wily' often describes people (or animals, like 'a wily fox') who achieve their goals through clever tricks rather than open honesty. It's slightly negative, implying cunning and sneakiness. Common collocations: 'wily politician', 'wily opponent'.
Spanish: astuto - sagaz - listo (para engañar)Portuguese (BR): astuto - sagaz - esperto (em enganar)Portuguese (PT): astuto - astucioso - manhosoChinese (Simplified): 狡猾的 - 诡计多端的Chinese (Traditional): 狡猾的 - 詭計多端的Hindi: चतुर - मक्कार - चालाकArabic: مخادع - داهية
Example Sentences
The wily fox escaped from the trap.
basic
She is a wily negotiator and always gets the best deal.
basic
The wily salesman tricked many customers.
basic
Don’t underestimate him—he’s as wily as they come.
natural
That was a wily move—nobody saw it coming.
natural
People say the new CEO is both charming and wily.
natural