Craftiness: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is generally used to describe someone's skill or cleverness in achieving something, often through ingenious means. It can be neutral or slightly cheeky but doesn't necessarily have a negative connotation.

• His craftiness in solving complex problems always amazed his colleagues

Cunning is often used to describe someone who is clever in a deceitful or tricky way. It carries a more negative connotation than 'craftiness' and implies a level of guile or sneakiness.

• The thief's cunning plan to steal the jewels almost succeeded

This word is used when describing the quality of being dishonest and misleading. It has a very negative connotation and is often used to highlight someone's tendency to lie or deceive.

• Her deceitfulness was revealed when her fraudulent activities came to light

Slyness refers to being clever in a secretive way, often involving trickery or deceit. It has a slightly negative connotation but is not as harsh as 'deceitfulness'.

• His slyness in negotiations always gave him the upper hand

This word is often used to describe someone who uses their smarts in a sly or deceitful way. It has a negative connotation.

• His craftiness allowed him to win the game by tricking the other players.
• She used her craftiness to get all the answers for the test.

This word highlights creativity and problem-solving skills, typically used in contexts that value innovation and inventive thinking.

• The engineer’s ingenuity led to the creation of a more efficient solar panel.
• Her ingenuity was evident in the way she redesigned the kitchen layout.

This word is usually positive, indicating quick thinking and intelligence. It's often used to praise someone's innovative thinking.

• His cleverness shone through when he solved the difficult puzzle.
• Everyone admired her cleverness in finding a shortcut for the project.

This word focuses on proficiency and expertise in a particular task or action. It is generally positive and respects mastery.

• His skillfulness at playing the piano amazed everyone in the audience.
• The chef's skillfulness was evident in the delicious, perfectly cooked meal.