Shrewd Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shrewd
[ʃruːd ]
Definitions
business
Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute. Shrewd business people are able to anticipate market trends and make profitable decisions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shrewd |
Used to describe someone who is very good at making judgments about situations or people, often in a way that is advantageous for them.
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| astute |
Describes someone who is very perceptive and can understand and judge situations or behaviors quickly and accurately.
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| clever |
Refers to someone who is quick to understand or learn. It can be used for someone showing inventiveness or originality.
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| sharp |
Describes someone with a quick and intelligent mind. It can also imply being witty or able to notice and respond quickly.
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| wise |
Refers to someone who has good judgment and experience, often implying thoughtfulness and deep understanding.
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Examples of usage
- She is known for her shrewd business acumen.
- His shrewd investments helped him build a successful company.
behavior
Clever and quick at understanding and making decisions. A shrewd negotiator is able to outsmart the competition and secure the best deals.
Synonyms
crafty, cunning, discerning, sagacious.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shrewd |
Shrewd is often used to describe someone who is sharp-witted and makes good judgments, especially in practical matters like business or politics.
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| cunning |
Cunning often implies cleverness and deceit, similar to 'crafty', and can be used to describe someone who uses their intelligence for misleading or manipulating others.
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| crafty |
Crafty typically has a negative connotation and suggests someone who is skillful in achieving their aims through deceit or trickery.
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| sagacious |
Sagacious is a more formal term and is used to describe someone who has keen mental discernment and good judgment. It reflects wisdom and insight.
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| discerning |
Discerning usually refers to someone who shows good judgment and insight in understanding things. It is often positive and implies a deep level of understanding or appreciation.
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Examples of usage
- His shrewd tactics allowed him to come out on top in the negotiations.
- She has a shrewd sense of when to take risks and when to hold back.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research indicates that shrewd individuals often possess high emotional intelligence, allowing them to read social situations effectively.
- Psychologists suggest that shrewdness can involve being strategic, weighing options thoughtfully before making decisions.
- People considered shrewd might excel in negotiation, as they can discern the needs and weaknesses of others.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, many characters are described as shrewd, often showcasing their cleverness and wit to outsmart their opponents.
- Classic literature often contrasts shrewd characters with naive ones, highlighting the impact of intelligence on success.
- The term appears frequently in modern novels, reflecting on characters who navigate complex situations with wisdom and experience.
Pop Culture
- Shrewd characters appear in various films and TV shows, often depicted as savvy businesspeople or clever detectives who solve problems quickly.
- In popular video games, shrewdness is a trait that helps players strategize and win against opponents through careful planning.
- The TV show 'The Apprentice' features contestants who showcase their shrewdness in business challenges to impress potential employers.
History
- Historical figures, like Benjamin Franklin, were often described as shrewd for their ability to navigate political and social landscapes effectively.
- Shrewd leaders in various cultures have used their understanding of human behavior to maintain power and negotiate treaties throughout history.
- The term has often been used in contexts where individuals cleverly outmaneuvered larger powers or more resourceful foes, reflecting a sense of cunning strategy.
Origin of 'shrewd'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'shrewd' comes from Middle English, derived from the word 'shrew', which originally meant a bad-tempered woman, but evolved to mean someone who is clever and sharp-minded.
- In the 16th century, 'shrewd' had associations with being mischievous or tricky, reflecting the cunning aspect of the word.
- Over time, the meaning shifted positively, and now it primarily denotes intelligence and astuteness in decision-making.
The word 'shrewd' dates back to the late 14th century and is derived from the Middle English 'shrewde', meaning 'wicked, evil'. Over time, the meaning evolved to its current usage, denoting cleverness and sharp judgment.
See also: shrew, shrewdness.