Pronunciation

/kʌnɪŋ/

Definitions

• Adjective: Skilled in achieving one’s aims by indirect or deceitful means; clever and resourceful. Example: He showed remarkable cunning in escaping from the trap.
• Verb: To act cunningly; to be crafty or sly in one’s actions or plans. Example: She cunningly avoided answering the question.

Phrases

• “Cunning plan” refers to a clever or devious strategy.
• “He displayed his cunning” indicates that someone has shown their ability to be cleverly manipulative.
• “Don’t be outdone by their cunning” warns against being tricked by someone’s clever tactics.

Example Sentences

• Adjective: “The thief was cunning enough to escape without leaving any traces.”
• Verb: “She cunningly negotiated a better deal for her company.”

Synonyms

• Clever
• Artful
• Deceitful
• Sly
• Resourceful
• Shrewd
• Slyly

Antonyms

• Foolish
• Naive
• Straightforward
• Inexperienced
• Unwitting
• Stupid