What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
calculating
Example
She is known for her calculating nature, always thinking several steps ahead. [calculating: adjective]
Example
The engineer spent hours calculating the dimensions of the building to ensure its stability. [calculating: verb]
cunning
Example
The cunning fox outsmarted the hunters by leading them on a wild chase. [cunning: adjective]
Example
He used his cunning to convince others to do his bidding. [cunning: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Calculating is more commonly used than cunning in everyday language. Calculating is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while cunning is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between calculating and cunning?
While calculating is typically associated with a more formal tone, cunning is often used in informal or storytelling contexts.