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 investor who always knows when to buy and sell stocks. [canny: adjective]
Example
She showed her canny negotiation skills by getting the best deal for her client. [canny: adjective]
savvy
Example
He is tech-savvy and can fix any computer problem. [savvy: adjective]
Example
She has a savvy approach to marketing and always knows how to attract customers. [savvy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Savvy is more commonly used than canny in everyday language. Savvy is versatile and can be applied to various contexts, while canny is less common and may be more specific to certain situations or regions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between canny and savvy?
Both canny and savvy can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, canny may lean towards a more informal tone due to its association with Scottish dialects, while savvy is more widely recognized and accepted in both formal and informal settings.