What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insidious
Example
The insidious disease slowly weakened her body. [insidious: adjective]
Example
The insidious nature of gossip can destroy relationships. [insidious: noun]
cunning
Example
The cunning fox outsmarted the hunters. [cunning: adjective]
Example
She used her cunning to get what she wanted. [cunning: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cunning is more commonly used than insidious in everyday language, especially when referring to people or actions. Insidious is more specific and often used in medical or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between insidious and cunning?
Insidious is more formal than cunning, as it is often used in technical or medical contexts. Cunning is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
