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 outsmart the hunters and escape. [cunning: adjective]
Example
She used her cunning to get what she wanted from her boss. [cunning: noun]
wily
Example
The wily politician was able to sway public opinion with his smooth talking. [wily: adjective]
Example
He used his wily ways to get out of trouble with the law. [wily: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cunning is more commonly used than wily in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cunning and wily?
Cunning can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while wily is more commonly used in informal or literary contexts and may sound more formal.
