Definitions
- Describing behavior that is sneaky or underhanded. - Referring to actions that are deceitful or dishonest. - Talking about someone who is sly or cunning in a negative way.
- Describing someone who is clever and able to achieve their goals through skillful means. - Referring to someone who is shrewd or astute in their dealings. - Talking about someone who is resourceful and able to think quickly on their feet.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe someone who is clever or skillful in some way.
- 2Both words can have negative connotations.
- 3Both words can be used to describe behavior that is not straightforward or honest.
What is the difference?
- 1Intent: Subdolent implies a negative intent or purpose, while cunning can be used in a more positive or neutral sense.
- 2Motive: Subdolent suggests a hidden or ulterior motive, while cunning can be used to describe someone who is simply clever or resourceful.
- 3Connotation: Subdolent has a more negative connotation than cunning, which can be used in a more positive or neutral sense.
- 4Usage: Subdolent is a less common word than cunning, which is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
- 5Formality: Subdolent is a more formal word than cunning, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
Remember this!
Subdolent and cunning both describe someone who is clever or skillful, but there are differences in their usage and connotations. Subdolent implies a negative intent or purpose, while cunning can be used in a more positive or neutral sense. Additionally, subdolent has a more negative connotation and is less commonly used than cunning. Cunning is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, while subdolent is a more formal word.
