Cunningly: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆ
cunningly
[หkสnษชลli ]
Definition
in a clever and deceitful way
In a cunningly crafted plan, the thief managed to steal the jewels without anyone noticing.
Synonyms
cleverly, craftily, deviously, slyly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cunningly |
When something is done in a way that shows skill and being clever, often with a hint of trickery or deceit. It indicates someone is being very smart in getting what they want, sometimes by not being completely honest.
|
| cleverly |
Used to describe actions that show intelligence and inventiveness, but without negative connotations of deceit or trickery. It emphasizes quick thinking and smart solutions.
|
| deviously |
Implies actions that are not straightforward and involve deceit, trickery, or dishonesty. It has a negative connotation, suggesting that someone is being deliberately sneaky or dishonest.
|
| slyly |
Used to describe actions done in a secret, cunning way, often with a light touch of humor or playfulness. It can imply someone is being sneaky, but not always in a harmful way.
|
| craftily |
Describes actions done with skill and cleverness, often suggesting a level of deceit or trickery. It is similar to 'cunningly' but with a bit more emphasis on the shrewdness and sneakiness involved.
|
Examples of usage
- He cunningly manipulated the situation to his advantage.
- She spoke cunningly, masking her true intentions.
- The spy cunningly gathered information without raising suspicion.
- The magician performed the trick cunningly, leaving the audience amazed.
- The politician cunningly dodged questions about the scandal.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Old English 'cunnian', which means to know or to be skilled.
- In Middle English, the term evolved into 'cunning', referring to craftiness or skillful deceit.
- The use of 'cunningly' emphasizes the manner in which someone uses their cleverness, usually with a sly intention.
Literature
- In classic fairy tales, cunning characters often outsmart stronger foes, illustrating the power of wit over brawn.
- Shakespeare frequently used themes of cunning in his plays, portraying characters who manipulate others for personal gain.
- Cunning characters often serve as moral lessons, teaching that intellect can be a double-edged sword.
Psychology
- People who display cunning behavior often exhibit high levels of emotional intelligence, enabling them to read and manipulate social situations.
- Cunning can be adaptive in social settings, allowing individuals to navigate complex relationships and achieve goals effectively.
- Some psychological studies suggest that those who rely on cunning strategies may differ in ethical perspectives compared to more straightforward individuals.
Pop Culture
- Cunning characters are prominent in movies and TV series, often portrayed as anti-heroes who use their smarts to outwit opponents.
- Popular films such as 'Ocean's Eleven' highlight the theme of cunning planning and execution in heists.
- The term is often associated with clever villains in stories, such as Loki in the Marvel Universe, who uses cunning to achieve his goals.
Translations
Translations of the word "cunningly" in other languages:
๐ต๐น astutamente
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเคฒเคพเคเฅ เคธเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช listig
๐ฎ๐ฉ cerdik
๐บ๐ฆ ั ะธััะพ
๐ต๐ฑ przebiegle
๐ฏ๐ต ็ก็พใซ
๐ซ๐ท astucieusement
๐ช๐ธ astutamente
๐น๐ท kurnazca
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ตํํ๊ฒ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุจุฏูุงุก
๐จ๐ฟ lstivฤ
๐ธ๐ฐ lstivo
๐จ๐ณ ็ก็พๅฐ
๐ธ๐ฎ prebrisano
๐ฎ๐ธ kรฆnskulega
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะนะปะฐะบะตัะปัะบะฟะตะฝ
๐ฌ๐ช แฎแแ แฎแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ hiylษgษrcษsinษ
๐ฒ๐ฝ astutamente
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #22,959, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
- ...
- 22956 frolic
- 22957 preformed
- 22958 unreservedly
- 22959 cunningly
- 22960 vengeful
- 22961 depressant
- 22962 inoffensive
- ...