What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
canny
Example
He is a canny businessman who always knows how to make a profit. [canny: adjective]
Example
She made a canny decision to invest in the stock market, which paid off handsomely. [canny: adjective]
discerning
Example
She has a discerning taste in art and can easily identify masterpieces. [discerning: adjective]
Example
The discerning customer carefully selects only the best products. [discerning: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Discerning is more commonly used than canny in everyday language. Discerning is versatile and can be applied to various contexts, such as art, business, or personal relationships. Canny, on the other hand, is less common and is typically used in specific situations where resourcefulness and caution are emphasized.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between canny and discerning?
Both canny and discerning can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, discerning is generally considered more formal due to its positive connotation and association with good judgment.
