What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cunning
Example
The cunning fox managed to steal the chicken from the farmer's coop. [cunning: adjective]
Example
She used her cunning to get out of trouble with the principal. [cunning: noun]
shrewd
Example
He made a shrewd investment in the stock market and earned a significant profit. [shrewd: adjective]
Example
The shrewd negotiator was able to secure a better deal for his company. [shrewd: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shrewd is more commonly used than cunning in everyday language. Shrewd is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cunning is less common and often associated with negative situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cunning and shrewd?
Both cunning and shrewd can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, shrewd is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as business or academic settings, while cunning is more commonly used in informal contexts.
