What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cunningness
Example
The fox's cunningness allowed it to outsmart the other animals in the forest. [cunningness: noun]
Example
She used her cunningness to get what she wanted from her boss. [cunningness: noun]
guile
Example
The politician's guile helped him win the election. [guile: noun]
Example
He used his guile to deceive his enemies and gain an advantage. [guile: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Guile is more commonly used than cunningness in everyday language, especially in American English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cunningness and guile?
Guile is more formal than cunningness and is often used in more serious or literary contexts.