cunning - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cunning Word Meanings
- Sly or deceitful
- Clever in a tricky way
- Skillful at achieving goals using deceit
cunning Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cunning Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkʌn.ɪŋ/
US
/ˈkʌn.ɪŋ/
cunning Word Etymology
(a) cunning = cun + ning; (b) From Old English 'cunning' meaning 'knowledge', from Proto-Germanic *kuningaz; related to Latin 'cognoscere'. (c) Imagine a sly fox plotting its clever escape, embodying both intelligence and deceit as it navigates through the forest's challenges.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
cunning as an adjective describes someone sly and deceitful, but it can also mean highly clever in a tricky, sometimes admiring way. In everyday use, it often carries a moral undertone and is more negative than clever or smart when describing a person who uses deception to reach a goal. You will hear phrases like a cunning plan or a cunning fox in stories or news. The noun form is rare today, but it can mean craftiness or skill, especially in the sense of deceit. Learners should note the strong, judgmental flavor of the word and avoid overgeneralizing it to ordinary intelligence.
Usage Reminders
- Use in contexts of deceit or trickery, not simple cleverness
- Keep the moral tone in mind; it often implies disapproval
- Common collocations: cunning plan, cunning disguise, cunning trick
- The noun form is rare and usually archaic or formal
- Prefer neutral terms like clever or smart for everyday praise
Common Misconceptions
- It does not simply mean being very smart
- It is always a positive trait
- It cannot describe a plan or strategy
- It is interchangeable with clever in all contexts
- It should be translated as trickiness in every language
Thinking Differences
In English, cunning often carries a moral judgement about using deceit to achieve ends; it can be admired in fiction but usually disapproved in real life. Learners should note that cool cleverness is not the same as morally dubious cunning.
Learning Tips
- Study both senses of noun and adjective
- Note the negative tone when describing people
- memorize common collocations like cunning plan
- Compare with clever to feel the difference in tone
- Watch for regional preferences in usage
- Practice with fiction examples to see nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'cunning'?
A.Being naive and untrustworthy
B.Showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit
C.Being overly honest and straightforward
D.Having a loud and boisterous personality
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'cunning' in a sentence.
A.The cunning fox tricked the farmer.
B.He was cunning when he helped the elderly lady cross the street.
C.Her cunning plan involved a lot of honesty and openness.
D.The cunning child easily solved the puzzle.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'cunning'?
A.Sincere
B.Crafty
C.Obvious
D.Simple
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'cunning'?
A.Deceitful
B.Naïve
C.Resourceful
D.Guileful
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might be considered cunning?
A.An individual who cleverly negotiates a deal to their advantage at work.
B.A person who always tells the truth in every situation.
C.Someone who is straightforward and easy to read in conversations.
D.A teacher who is always fair and just to all students.
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