Crafty: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone uses clever and sometimes deceptive methods to achieve their goals, often in a negative sense.

• The crafty fox found a way to get into the henhouse
• He is known for his crafty business deals that always seem to benefit him the most

Typically describes someone who is clever in a deceitful or secretive way, carrying a negative connotation.

• With a sly grin, he slipped the money into his pocket without anyone noticing
• She gave him a sly look that suggested she knew more than she was letting on

Used to describe actions or behaviors that are deceptive and sneaky, often with the intention to mislead or avoid the truth, carrying a strong negative connotation.

• The politician's devious tactics were exposed by the investigative journalist
• He took a devious route through the forest to avoid being seen

Refers to someone who is astute, sharp, and able to make good judgments, especially in business or politics, generally a positive trait.

• She made a shrewd investment that doubled her money in a year
• The shrewd lawyer was able to find a loophole in the contract

Describes someone who uses intelligence and skill to achieve their ends, often through deception or trickery, usually carrying a negative connotation.

• The cunning thief managed to steal the diamond without being caught
• Her cunning plan to take over the company involved manipulating several key players

Use when describing someone who is clever in a deceptive or underhanded way. Often has a negative connotation.

• The crafty fox managed to steal the farmer's chickens without getting caught.
• She came up with a crafty plan to win the game.

Use to describe someone who is particularly clever, original, and inventive.

• The scientist's ingenious solution solved the decades-old problem.
• Her ingenious idea revolutionized the way we store data.

Use when someone is skillfully cunning, particularly in achieving their aims by indirect means. Can imply cleverness in a slightly deceptive way.

• His artful negotiation skills saved the company a lot of money.
• She gave an artful performance that impressed the judges.

Use when describing someone who can handle difficult situations effectively and find quick and clever ways to overcome challenges.

• Lost in the woods, he proved to be incredibly resourceful, finding food and shelter.
• She is very resourceful and always finds a way to get things done.

Use to describe someone who has special abilities or training in a particular area.

• He is a skilled carpenter who can build anything from scratch.
• The skilled nurse quickly addressed the patient's needs.