What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cunning
Example
The cunning fox was able to steal the chicken without being noticed. [cunning: adjective]
Example
She used her cunning to get what she wanted from the negotiations. [cunning: noun]
sly
Example
He had a sly smile on his face when he told the lie. [sly: adjective]
Example
The cat was sly in its approach to catching the mouse. [sly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sly is more commonly used than cunning in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Cunning is more commonly used in formal contexts or in literature.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cunning and sly?
While cunning is more formal and often used in academic or professional settings, sly is more informal and commonly used in everyday conversation.
