cunning

[ˈkʌnɪŋ]

cunning Definition

  • 1having or showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit or evasion
  • 2attractive or quaint

Using cunning: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cunning" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He was a cunning thief who always managed to escape the police.

  • Example

    She had a cunning plan to get what she wanted.

  • Example

    The fox is known for its cunning ways.

  • Example

    The old cottage had a cunning design.

cunning Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for cunning

Antonyms for cunning

Phrases with cunning

  • a humorous phrase used to describe someone who is skilled in the use of language, especially in a sexual context

    Example

    He was known as a cunning linguist among his friends.

  • very clever and able to deceive others easily

    Example

    He was as cunning as a fox when it came to getting what he wanted.

  • a clever and often devious strategy or scheme

    Example

    She came up with a cunning plan to get revenge on her ex-boyfriend.

Origins of cunning

from Old English 'cunnan', meaning 'to know'

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Summary: cunning in Brief

The term 'cunning' [ˈkʌnɪŋ] describes someone or something that is skilled at achieving their goals through deceit or evasion. It can also mean attractive or quaint. Examples include 'He was a cunning thief who always managed to escape the police,' and 'The old cottage had a cunning design.' Phrases like 'cunning linguist' and 'cunning plan' add humor and depth to the term.

How do native speakers use this expression?