What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sagacity
Example
The CEO's sagacity helped the company navigate through tough times. [sagacity: noun]
Example
Her sagacious advice helped me make an informed decision. [sagacious: adjective]
shrewdness
Example
His shrewdness in negotiations helped him secure a better deal. [shrewdness: noun]
Example
She made a shrewd move by investing in the stock market early. [shrewd: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shrewdness is more commonly used than sagacity in everyday language, especially in business and financial contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sagacity and shrewdness?
Sagacity is more formal and academic than shrewdness, which is more colloquial and informal. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.